Malaysia and Thailand are expected to finalise negotiations on a proposed project to widen the Sungai Golok estuary within a month, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The initiative aims to reduce recurring flood risks affecting communities in Kelantan and southern Thailand.
Anwar revealed that he had held two rounds of discussions with the Thai government, including talks with his Thai counterpart, Anutin Charnvirakul, to accelerate progress on the proposed project. Both countries have made headway in negotiations, reflecting their shared commitment to addressing cross-border flooding.
The proposed works involve widening and deepening the Sungai Golok estuary to improve water flow and help reduce the impact of flooding in surrounding areas. As the river forms part of the Malaysia–Thailand border, cooperation between both governments is essential to implementing effective flood mitigation measures.
Speaking at the launch of the Kelantan Entrepreneur Revival Scheme (Skim Usahawan Bangkit Negeri Kelantan) in Kota Bharu on Saturday, Anwar expressed hope that the remaining negotiations could be concluded within the next month. Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud was also present at the event.
The proposed project represents an important step towards strengthening flood resilience along the shared border. While negotiations have progressed, the final agreement has yet to be concluded, and further details on the project’s implementation are expected following discussions between the two governments.
