Authors : Rahmah Elfithri, Mohd Ekhwan B. Toriman, Mazlin B. Mokhtar and Hafizan B. Juahir
Abstract: The management of river and water resources in Malaysia remains fragile and inherited with many problems of a river basin. Rivers in Malaysia play an important role in conservation, agriculture and potable water supply but they are facing threat from rapid development in the industry sectors and urbanization. This study attempts to focus on the current situation of water issues in Malaysia in particular on perspectives and initiatives pertaining to Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) within the more encompassing context of Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM). The complex process of decision making for sustainable management of water and river basins needs an integrated and holistic approach involving many stakeholders and disciplines. In Malaysia, several government agencies and local authorities are involved in managing the rivers. The management of the water resources in an integrated and holistic manner for a river basin will lead to solutions to the several major problems encountered with water management in river basins. Water resources development, river and flood plain management and projects on policy analysis needs a multidisciplinary approach. This study also looks at several initiatives in Malaysia and few other countries in implementation of IRBM concepts.
Rahmah Elfithri, Mohd Ekhwan B. Toriman, Mazlin B. Mokhtar and Hafizan B. Juahir, 2011. Perspectives and Initiatives on Integrated River Basin Management in Malaysia: A Review. The Social Sciences, 6: 169-176.