Residents in Bagan Datuk are set to benefit from a major government initiative aimed at strengthening flood resilience, with the RM87.6 million Flood Mitigation Plan scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2026. The long-awaited project is designed to address long-standing flood concerns that have repeatedly disrupted livelihoods and damaged property.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Phase One of the RTB project will cover several critical engineering components. These include upgrading the Tebuk Semani drainage line, improving infrastructure at Parit 8 Barat, and constructing a flood retention pond in Sungai Balai Baroh capable of storing excess rainwater during peak rainfall periods. These measures are expected to regulate water movement more efficiently and reduce the occurrence of flash floods.
He further explained that floods in the district are driven by multiple contributing factors. These include intense rainfall patterns, ageing drainage systems, the presence of over 1,900 culverts affecting water flow coordination, and the naturally low-lying landscape that encourages stagnant water accumulation. Without intervention, such conditions continue to expose the community to high flood risks.
Acknowledging that immediate action is still necessary, Ahmad Zahid emphasised the importance of ongoing interim solutions. Agencies have been urged to improve waterway maintenance, prioritise structural upgrades and coordinate actions to ensure quicker and more effective responses to flooding risks.
Beyond flood control, Bagan Datuk is also poised for major technological and economic transformation through the development of a state-of-the-art Tier IV data centre. The project, involving KKDW, MARA Inc, Silver Streams and Felcra, is expected to turn the district into an emerging digital hub. The first 10MW phase is scheduled for mid-2027, followed by an additional 25MW phase the year after.
The project is anticipated to attract significant investment, generate employment opportunities, and stimulate new economic activities, particularly within the technology sector. Ahmad Zahid expressed optimism that both the RTB and data centre project will progress on schedule, providing long-term protection, prosperity and development opportunities for the people of Bagan Datuk.
