The Selangor MB has ordered an investigation into alleged illegal forest clearing in Hulu Langat, suspected of contributing to recurring floods
KLANG: The Selangor government will instruct relevant departments to investigate allegations of illegal forest clearing in the Batu 18 area of Hulu Langat.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said he will ask departments like the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS) or the Selangor State Forestry Department to determine if the activity is a factor in recurring floods.
“We will look at what happened first,” he said after attending the Koperasi Serbaguna Anak-Anak Selangor Berhad (KOSAS) Golden Jubilee Dinner.
He stated that river reserve matters would be handled by JPS, while forest issues would fall under the Forestry Department.
Amirudin said frequent flooding incidents are linked to the incomplete Phase 2 of the Sungai Langat Flood Mitigation Project, which is still in the design stage.
“The project is still at the design stage, and if it can be completed, I believe it will resolve the recurring flood problem,” he said.
He added that water flow would be directed to Kuala Langat and Sepang upon the project’s completion.
“I will monitor this myself so that it is completed on schedule, in addition to finding an immediate solution to prevent this flood problem from recurring,” Amirudin said.
Regarding KOSAS, he expressed confidence in its investment strength and good returns for members.
“Many new cooperatives have been established, some for a long time already,” he noted.
He said the state would identify 10 or 20 role model cooperatives to expand, following a successful Japanese model in agriculture and food security.
“This will also be part of our strategy in 2026,” Amirudin added.
He stated that KOSAS has invested successfully in property, tourism, and plantation sectors, providing good returns.
The success of KOSAS, now marking its 50th anniversary, is due to efficient management and good governance, which have increased member confidence. – Bernama
