03/08/2025

NATIONAL 5 theSun on Sunday AUG 3, 2025

13MP flood mitigation, climate plans lauded

IPOH: A fire which destroyed about 23ha of bushes in Kg Tersusun Tebuk Panchor in Gunung Semanggol, Bagan Serai in Perak has been brought under control. Fire and Rescue Department Operations Division assistant director Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad said as of Friday evening, 22.6ha of the fire had been extinguished and about 0.8ha were still burning. “Firefighting was carried out on the ground using mechanical and transport pumps with a 1,000ft hose and water sourced from a nearby fire hydrant.” He said the operation was assisted by the Air Unit using an AW 139 aircraft to carry out 20 water bombings. He also said among the challenges during the firefighting was extinguishing areas with high-voltage electrical lines, which required caution. “In addition, the water intake area for water bombing was shallow, causing mud to enter the water bucket.” Sabarodzi said the firefighting was halted at 7pm on Friday and continued yesterday with additional personnel and assets. “Ground efforts by firefighters and water bombing will ensure that the remaining embers are extinguished.” The fire, which began at 3pm on Thursday, was said to be caused by prolonged hot weather. – Bernama RM8m copper material, equipment seized IPOH: The General Operations Force (GOF) seized various types of copper materials, several machines and other equipment valued at RM8,586,000 in an enforcement operation at an unlicensed factory in Simpang Pulai. Northern Brigade (Ulu Kinta) GOF Commander SAC Shahrum Hashim said a local man was also arrested during the operation conducted yesterday morning, which was named Op Hazard. “The GOF, assisted by the Inland Revenue Board, Batu Gajah Municipal Council and the Environment Department (DOE), arrested a local male in his 40s and confiscated items at a factory that processes copper dust and raw materials into copper scrap, which is suspected to be for export,” He added that intelligence gathered over the past month found that the activity had been ongoing for about a year and inspections revealed that the factory was operating without any approval from the DOE. Shahrum said the case is being investigated under Section 34A and Section 34B of the Environmental Quality Act 1974, and the DOE also took action by issuing a stop-work order under Section 38(1)(a) of Act 127. – Bernama Perak blaze extinguished in 3-day operation

Political will, public awareness vital for sustainable outcomes: Expert

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

by sharing road safety messages from agencies such as the Road Transport Department (RTD) and the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros).” With over 30,000 followers on TikTok and Instagram, one of his popular videos features his disappointment over road users who ignore the right of pedestrians to cross safely. It garnered over 450,000 views and 70,000 likes, Bernama reported. Muhammad Ammar said his content is aimed especially at youths and new drivers. “I try to produce videos that are short and simple so the message reaches everyone, even those who have held a licence for a long time but may have forgotten basic rules.” He observed that impatience and a lack of empathy behind the Mohd Yusaimi also said the Bill demonstrates Malaysia’s commitment to global climate agreements such as the Paris Agreement, a 2015 treaty under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which could enhance the country’s international standing and show that Malaysia is serious about meeting its environmental responsibilities. He highlighted that the introduction of the Bill could raise public awareness about climate change and the importance of collective action to address these challenges. the 13MP to regulate Malaysia’s climate response and strengthen national preparedness against the impacts of global warming. Mohd Yusaimi said the Climate Change Bill must go beyond being a symbolic policy and be enforced at federal, state and local levels, given that land and forest matters fall under state jurisdiction. He said strong enforcement, accountability and coordination among all levels of government are needed to ensure the Bill translates into action rather than remaining a statement of intent. “Apart from mitigation, adaptation is equally important. The proposed Bill could help Malaysia prepare for the impacts of climate change. “All parties must be willing to take action. For example, ensuring that forest cover consists of actual forests, not tree plantations, and addressing issues such as rare earth element mining,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR: Concerned by the increasing number of road collisions in the country, a social media user has taken the initiative to educate the public about road safety. Through his Instagram and TikTok based “Driving4Dummies” accounts, Muhammad Ammar Mohd Anas, who works in information technology at an international oil and gas company, has been sharing videos on road etiquette and responsibilities of road users for the past two years. “I was affected by the frequent news of road crashes claiming lives. It is frustrating because the same incidents keep happening and yet there is no change in driving attitudes. “At first, I felt helpless. But over time, I realised I could contribute PETALING JAYA: The RM20 billion allocation for flood mitigation projects nationwide under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) has been viewed as a positive step to protect lives and property, especially with the growing impacts of climate change. The 13MP outlined key climate mitigation and adaptation efforts, but experts stress that lasting political will and public awareness are vital for sustained impact. Pertubuhan Alam Sekitar Sejahtera Malaysia president Mohd Yusaimi Md Yusof told theSun that long-term success depends on planning and proper implementation. “The upgrades to rivers and drainage systems must consider current capacities, environmental impacts and climate resilience to ensure the projects remain effective for decades. “Better water flow management and upgraded infrastructure are crucial, as current facilities are based on outdated capacities.” He said early warning systems using accessible technology are important, so communities can respond quickly during disasters. On Thursday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the government would table a National Climate Change Bill and introduce a National Adaptation Plan under

Yusaimi said while the 13MP focuses on flood mitigation, the concern is whether the measures are sustainable. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

wheel remain common among road users in Malaysia. “Many also do not understand basic driving functions, such as using signals when making a turn and giving way to others, as well as the importance of having patience,” he said, adding that he is grateful that his content has received positive feedback from the public. He also said many drivers fail to recognise their obligation to give way to pedestrians. “When I visited Japan and Australia, drivers would stop when they saw someone at a crossing. But here, even when the pedestrian light is green, some drivers ignore it. He also suggested several improvements, such as installing special “Stop for Pedestrians” signs, lowering speed limits in “The Bill could also strengthen the green economy by encouraging sustainable business practices, innovation and investment in renewable energy and climate friendly industries. “However, these opportunities must be inclusive and accessible to all segments of society, not just industry players or academia. In many cases, local communities could come up with solutions that are relevant to their specific needs.” Despite the positive outlook, Mohd Yusaimi raised concerns about whether these measures would continue if there is a change in government. “While the 13MP emphasises strengthening mitigation measures, including flood mitigation projects and better water management to reduce flood risks, the question remains

urban pedestrian light durations and improving public complaint apps to make them more user-friendly. He expressed hope that efforts to educate the public on road safety could be expanded through collaborations with parties such as RTD, Miros, police and the Public Works Department. He also plans to expand his accounts to become an official road safety education platform, perhaps as a light module for schools, universities or driving institutes. “Driving is not just about getting from point A to B. It is a form of social interaction. If we start with actions such as giving way and being patient, it could make a big difference.” crossing whether these measures would be sustained in the long term. “If there is a change in government, would current policies also change? Policy continuity is vital. If each administration shifts its priorities, the impact of climate initiatives would be compromised.” He added that the 13MP stresses the importance of public awareness and participation in climate action. “Communities must be active partners, not just passive spectators. When people are empowered to understand and take part in climate solutions, the outcomes are more sustainable. “Raising awareness and embedding environmental values in society are just as important as building infrastructure or passing new laws.” areas, extending

‘Driving4Dummies’ helps educate public on road safety