Flood mitigation works begin in Section 51A, PJ

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 2, 2026

Flood mitigation work has begun at the Selera Jaya 223 food court in Petaling Jaya, involving the construction of an on-site detention pond to reduce flash flooding, with completion expected by February 2027. The project aims to prevent severe flooding that previously submerged stalls, using funds from the 2026 and 2027 budgets, while ensuring uninterrupted business operations during construction.

Flood mitigation efforts have commenced at the Selera Jaya 223 food court in Section 51A, Petaling Jaya, with completion expected within five months, according to Petaling Jaya mayor Datuk Mohd Yazid Sairi. The project formally began on September 14, following the appointment of a contractor by the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ).

Mayor Yazid emphasized the urgency of the project, noting that funds allocated from the council’s 2026 and 2027 budgets were utilized to initiate the work this year. The mitigation measures focus on constructing an on-site detention (OSD) pond in the adjacent carpark area to manage water flow and reduce flooding risks. He clarified that the work would not involve any structural changes to the food court itself.

This initiative addresses recurring flash floods that have severely impacted the food court in recent months. On April 20, floodwaters reached waist height, submerging approximately 60 stalls under 1.2 meters of water on May 6. The most severe incident occurred on July 18, when water levels rose up to 2 meters. MBPJ has linked these flood events to heavy rainfall exceeding 60 millimeters upstream in Kuala Lumpur, which overwhelmed local drainage systems.

The concept of the OSD pond was initially proposed in June by then-mayor Datuk Mohamad Zahri Samingon, who identified the carpark space as a suitable location for floodwater detention. Prior to beginning construction, MBPJ awaited state approval for the project, which was granted earlier this month.

In response to the disruptions caused by flooding, MBPJ provided affected traders with a one-month rental waiver and a 30% rental discount for the period from July to December 2026. The city council also committed to covering all post-flood cleaning costs. Regarding whether this rental concession would be extended beyond December, Yazid said the council would reassess the situation before making a decision, depending on the progress and impact of the ongoing mitigation work.

Yazid further assured that business operations would continue without interruption during the construction phase, dismissing concerns about relocating traders to facilitate the project. Additional measures targeting upstream drainage issues have also been identified as part of a broader strategy to reduce flood risks in the area.

The completion of the flood mitigation works is slated for February 2027, with MBPJ maintaining a focus on enhancing resilience against future flash flooding at the food court and surrounding areas.

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