IPOH: The Perak state government will carry out an investigation following claims that land-clearing activities at a durian orchard in Kampung Pasir, Ulu Slim, may have caused flash floods in the area, says Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
The Perak Mentri Besar said the investigation would focus on whether the operator of the 43ha orchard had the necessary planning permission from the Town and Country Planning Department, and complied with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
“We want to find out whether the land-clearing activities 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,” Saarani said at a press conference after attending a convocation ceremony at Politeknik Ungku Omar here yesterday.
“In the past, the planning permission was primarily required for construction projects, but it now applies to activities like tree-cutting. An EIA should also be conducted.
“If they failed to do so, they are liable to penalties, especially if their actions have caused flooding.”
Saarani said it was an offence to neglect these requirements as activities in forest areas fall under the jurisdiction of the Malaysia Planning Department and not local governments.
“The issue will be discussed at the upcoming state executive council meeting on Wednesday to look into the broader impact.
“This situation affects not just Slim River, but the entire state,” he added.
A Malay daily reported that hundreds of Musang King durian trees had been planted in a hilly area in the village in Slim River.
Logs were also seen drifting down a river and damaging the Slim Village bridge.
Heavy rainfall in Tanjung Malim since last Friday has seen several areas being flooded, as well as the collapse of a road between Slim River and Behrang Ulu.
Separately, Saarani said the state had met its goal of winning at least 35 gold medals at the 21st Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak that was held from Aug 17 to 24.
“We may have not achieved our target of being 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.
“We need to address our weaknesses to better prepare for the next Sukma in 2026, which will be held in Selangor,” he added.
