Adaptation Strategies for Flood Mitigation in Pahang River Basin

Abstract This chapter explores the ways in which residents in Pekan, Kuantan and Temerloh districts dealt with extreme floods in the Pahang River Basin. The data were based on a survey of 602 respondents who were affected by the floods, using a set of questionnaire in a face-to-face interview conducted in June 2015. Results of the study show that the flood has destructed the livelihood, crops and small business activities of the affected communities. Vulnerabilities of the communities are linked to the lack of flood warning, landlessness, unstable housing and food insecurity, in addition to female-headed households with financial burden. Community empowerment is necessary for recovering and reducing the loss and damages incurred and improving the quality of life. The prevention and coping measures aim to reduce risk of disasters for the communities in areas that are most vulnerable and less resilient. Flood preparedness is a good preventive measure to limit the negative impacts of extreme flooding in the future. Upgrading of communication system, diversification of income and strengthening of social institution networks are most appropriately recommended for flood adaptation and mitigation strategies.