SYNOPSIS & BIODATA OF SPEAKER

Synopsis 1 - Sabo Dam for Debris and Mud Flood Management by Ir. Dr. Wong Wai Sam

With the increase in the rainfall events in Malaysia, the flood flows from headwater and steep terrains have not only caused increased in the peak discharge along the river system but also carried with them large volume of debris, rocks and sediments which resulted in disastrous consequences to the downstream areas.  One of the disasters that has occurred is at the Gunung Jerai area on 18th Aug 2021.  This event has caused river water to overflow in the area around the foot of the mountain. The total recorded rainfall was 281 mm in 6 hours which exceeded 70 years Average Recurrence Interval (ARI). Heavy river flows swept away debris (logs, rocks, sediments and any hard materials) and stuck at each rivers’ bends and crossings, it subsequently caused river overflowed into the nearby settlements (e.g. pekan Yan, Kampung Tupah and Taman Tupah). This event had destroyed many properties and also took a few lives

This talk is intended to introduce the concept of Sabo structures in controlling the debris and sediment flows from headwaters as well as sizing and design of various components of the Sabo Dam structures with a case study.


Synopsis 2 - Flood Management in Malaysia by Ir. Ts. Noor Aishah Binti Zaharin

Rainfall has increased recently, and the frequency of floods has skyrocketed. The issue of climate change has received significant attention and is one that requires ongoing examination and action while developing flood management plans in Malaysia. The natural efficiency of absorption has been diminished by rapid urbanisation, leading to an exponential increase in surface runoff. Will the conventionally applied grey (structural) solution be able to help Malaysia become more resilient to flooding? Must we pursue the green (non-structural) and blue (water body) solution? This sharing session will provide a bird’s view of the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia's strategy for improving flood risk management in the nation.