M’sia boosts eco-friendly drainage to tackle climate risks

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 3, 2026

Malaysia is enhancing its stormwater management by combining nature-based solutions with digital technologies like AI and predictive modeling to boost urban resilience against climate change. This integrated approach, supported by cross-sector collaboration and updated technical standards, aims to improve decision-making and long-term planning for climate-adaptive infrastructure nationwide.

Malaysia is advancing its stormwater management efforts by integrating nature-based solutions with engineering innovation and digital technologies to enhance urban resilience against climate change and extreme weather events. The initiative aims to improve decision-making and preparedness through the use of data analytics, predictive modeling, artificial intelligence, and other digital tools.

Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach involving government, industry, and community stakeholders. He made these remarks while representing Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof at the launch of the National Conference on Stormwater Management 2026 in Kuala Lumpur. The four-day conference, which began on Tuesday, gathered policymakers, government agencies, industry leaders, academics, and community members to discuss integrated stormwater management and urban development strategies.

Abdul Rahman highlighted that strengthening urban resilience requires active collaboration among engineers, local authorities, researchers, developers, and other industry participants. He noted that the knowledge exchange and partnerships formed during the conference would support Malaysia’s efforts to improve its stormwater management systems and respond effectively to future climate-related challenges.

In parallel, Datuk Mohamad Radzi Abdul Talib, director-general of the Irrigation and Drainage Department, outlined ongoing institutional and technical enhancements aimed at addressing the dual pressures of climate change and rapid urbanization. The department is updating its technical standards and capabilities to meet these demands more effectively.

Additionally, the department is advancing long-term urban planning through the Eco-Friendly Drainage Master Plan. To date, 38 related studies have been completed, with five more underway, focusing on improving planning and investment frameworks nationwide. These efforts reflect Malaysia’s commitment to adopting sustainable and adaptive infrastructure measures that can better withstand environmental stresses.

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