IPOH: The state government will investigate claims that land clearing activities for a durian orchard in Kampung Pasir, Ulu Slim, may have been a factor that caused the recent flash flood incident in the area, says Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The Perak Mentri Besar said the investigation would focus on whether the 43ha orchard has obtained the necessary planning permission from the Town and Country Planning Department(PLANMalaysia) and its compliance with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
"We want to find out whether the land clearing activities have contributed to the flash flood incident.
"It is now a must for any land intended for agricultural or other activities to secure the necessary planning permission," he said in a press conference after attending a convocation ceremony at Politeknik Ungku Omar here on Monday (Aug 26).
"In the past, the planning permission was primarily required for construction projects, but it now applies to activities like tree cutting," he said.
"An EIA should also be conducted. If they (orchard operator) failed to do so, they are liable for penalties, especially if their actions have caused flooding," he added.
He said it was an offence to neglect these requirements, as operations in forest areas fall under the jurisdiction of the Malaysia Planning Department (Jabatan Perancangan Malaysia), rather than local governments.
"The issue will be discussed at the upcoming state executive council meeting on Wednesday to look into the broader impacts.
"This situation impacts not just Slim River but the entire state," he added.
It was reported by a Malay daily that hundreds of Musang King durian trees were planted in a hilly area in the village at Slim River to become a major centre for durian production.
Logs were also seen drifting down a river and damaging the Slim Village bridge.
Heavy rainfall in Tanjung Malim since Friday has seen several areas being flooded, including the collapse of a road between Slim River and Behrang Ulu.
Separately, Saraani said the state has met its goal of winning at least 35 gold medals at the 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak from Aug 17 to 24.
"We may have not achieved our target of placing in the top five, but the state is pleased with our gold medal haul.
"Our final standing was seventh spot, which falls short of our initial aim, so there is still room for improvement," he said.
"We need to address our weaknesses to better prepare for the next Sukma in 2026, which will be hosted in Selangor," he added.
