Anwar: Golok River mouth widening project to cut flood risk, talks with Thailand to wrap up within a month

KOTA BHARU, Oct 31 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has indicated that Malaysia and Thailand are expected to finalize negotiations on the Golok River mouth widening project within a month, with the aim of reducing flood risks in both countries. The project is seen as a key measure to mitigate the impact of floods affecting areas in Kelantan and southern Thailand.

Anwar held two rounds of talks with his Thai counterpart, Anutin Charnvirakul, to expedite the implementation of the project. The Kelantan Menteri Besar, Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud, was also present at the Kelantan State Entrepreneur Revival Scheme Launch Ceremony when Anwar made these statements. Anwar emphasized the importance of close cooperation between Malaysia and Thailand to effectively resolve the issue, benefiting residents on both sides of the border.

He reiterated that the Federal Government would continue to assist Kelantan in implementing flood mitigation projects, despite the significant allocations required due to high construction costs. The government plans to develop the area around the Rantau Panjang Bridge to enhance the locality's appearance and promote socioeconomic growth in the border region.