Thailand’s cabinet approves a joint project with Malaysia to reduce flood risks and improve water security in the Golok River Basin.
BANGKOK: Thailand’s Cabinet on Tuesday approved a joint environmental project with Malaysia aimed at reducing flood risks, improving water security and restoring ecosystems in the Golok River Basin, a key transboundary waterway linking the two countries.
The initiative, backed by US$4 million (RM15.9 million) in funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), will be implemented over 48 months with support from the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).
Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana said the project was jointly developed by Thailand’s Office of the National Water Resources and Malaysia’s Department of Irrigation and Drainage to improve flood management, address riverbank erosion and strengthen transboundary water resources management in the Golok River Basin.
“The project reflects the commitment of both countries to strengthening environmental security and ensuring the sustainable management of shared water resources,” she said in a statement following the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
Lalida said the initiative will enhance bilateral cooperation through the development of a shared database, flood and drought risk assessments, and a joint strategic action plan for the river basin.
“It will also promote nature-based solutions to restore ecosystems and reduce the impact of environmental challenges on communities within the basin,” she said.
The Golok River forms part of the natural boundary between southern Thailand and northern Peninsular Malaysia and is frequently affected by seasonal flooding, impacting communities on both sides of the border.
