Floods & The Environment

OK, I know I've been a little last minute with my announcements on where I'm speaking. ;) Much apologies about, will certainly try to be earlier next time round. Well, I've got one more last minute announcement, but this time it isn't really my fault, for I've just managed to get the full details yesterday ;)

I'll be speaking on the impact of the environment on the floods in Malaysia, particularly in Johor Bahru this evening ;). Yes, I'm now wearing the environmentalist hat. ;)

Topic : Flood Disaster 2006/2007
Date : 25th March 2007
Time : 8:00pm
Venue : Johor Bahru Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry
(No. 89A & 91A, Jalan Glasiar, Taman Tasek, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor)

We'll be discussing the flood risk in Malaysia, which has increased alarmingly in recent decades largely due to changing physical characteristics of the hydrological system caused by human activities: continued development of already densely populated flood plains, encroachment on flood-prone areas, destruction of forests and hill slopes development.

Flood losses are high but disastrous flood events which occurred in the past as a consequence of rapid development and environmental degradation are forgotten quickly, people choosing to see only the positive benefits of a booming economy while turning a blind eye to their negative effects.

Within a climate of sustained economic boom, policy makers as well as Malaysians from all walks of life are understandably less concerned about floods than they are about the financial gains that can be reaped from a booming economy. Official solutions for flood control are largely engineering based and are ineffective to combat extensive monsoon floods.

So for readers in the south, do drop by for a visit ;)