UK shares expertise to enhance flood resilience in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: The British High Commission Kuala Lumpur convened a Roundtable for Effective Flood Management and Responses in Cities on 25 – 26 March 2024 bringing together esteemed experts and stakeholders to address the pressing challenges of urban flooding. Co-organised in collaboration with leading United Kingdom and Malaysian experts in flood management and climate resilience, the event showcased our joint expertise in this domain, gaps to address and areas for future collaboration.

The roundtable served as a platform for robust discussions and knowledge exchange, highlighting innovative strategies and best practices to enhance flood resilience in urban areas. Notably, UK experts shared insights on cutting-edge technologies and inter-disciplinary approaches aimed at bolstering early warning systems, improving infrastructure resilience, and fostering community engagement.

H.E. Ailsa Terry CMG, British High Commissioner to Malaysia, emphasised the importance of international collaboration in tackling the complex issue of urban flooding. "As climate change intensifies, effective flood management becomes increasingly vital for the sustainable development of cities worldwide. The UK's rich experience in flood resilience, coupled with Malaysia's commitment to climate action, lays a strong foundation for bilateral cooperation in addressing the shared challenge of flooding."

YB Nga Kor Ming, Minister of Housing and Local Government, who presented his opening remark also said “Looking ahead to the 12th Malaysia Plan, our focus shifts towards bolstering green growth, ensuring sustainability, and resilience. This involves adopting a clean, green, and resilient development agenda through a "whole-of-nation approach."

“By addressing climate change, reducing disaster risks, and strengthening the enabling environment for effective governance, we aim to fortify our nation against future challenges”. ``

The roundtable reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between the UK and Malaysia in science, climate change and wider environmental stewardship space.

Moving forward, the outcomes of the roundtable will inform new collaborative efforts aimed at advancing innovative, climate compatible flood management solutions and enhancing knowledge base in building climate-resilient cities in Malaysia and beyond. By harnessing the collective expertise and innovative approaches shared at the event coupled with constructive new approaches, the British High Commission remains committed to fostering enduring partnerships and driving positive change in the Malaysian urban environment.

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** Media Statement by the British High Commission Kuala Lumpur