{
  "id": 19647227,
  "title": "RM208.3mil allocated to upgrade Mada irrigation and drainage systems in 2027",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/12/rm208-3mil-allocated-to-upgrade-mada-irrigation-and-drainage-systems",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-12T12:09:02.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/11/1576344/rm2083mil-allocated-upgrade-mada-irrigation-and-drainage-systems-2027"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": null,
  "summary": "The Malaysian government has allocated RM208.319 million for upgrading irrigation and drainage systems in Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) areas in 2027, according to the New Straits Times. This initiative aims to improve water resource management, particularly in dealing with unpredictable rainfall patterns and lower reservoir levels. Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Chan Foong Hin highlighted the implementation of a telemetry system for continuous monitoring of reservoir levels, rainfall distribution, and resource changes to guide management planning. Additionally, the government plans to enhance irrigation efficiency through water reuse pumps, rainwater utilisation, water-flow control, and maintenance of water control structures. The measures also include adjusting padi planting schedules, promoting drought-resistant varieties, and implementing six rounds of Cloud Seeding Operations throughout 2026. Progress on tertiary irrigation projects and flood complaints in the Tokai area is reported to be ahead of schedule, with full completion expected by 2030.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}