Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said the projects were being put on hold as procedures were not followed and they were awarded through direct negotiations.

“I have asked for (the projects) not to be continued and to be reviewed to ensure transparency.

“This is not a small amount. (Though there were) reasons to expedite the flood mitigation projects, there is a problem when regulations are not observed and there are efforts to exploit the situation.

“This is regrettable and I am thankful that senior (finance) ministry officials are united and do not agree with this, but were (only) following instructions,” he said at a press conference.

Anwar said his government’s focus will be on providing a fresh and positive climate to draw investments and restore confidence, in driving the nation’s growth.

In March, Ismail Sabri Yaakob’s government announced an additional RM15 billion for flood mitigation projects between 2023 and 2030, following floods nationwide.

Before this, Ismail said only RM1 billion had been set aside for mitigation projects under the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021-2025).

Yesterday, Anwar said deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will chair Putrajaya’s disaster management and flood preparedness committee, as Putrajaya prepares for the possibility of floods this month.

The floods which hit the country late last year claimed 55 lives and saw more than 500,000 people displaced.

Public infrastructure, residential houses and crops destroyed during the floods also contributed to more than RM6 billion in losses.

In November, several states had also been affected by floods with thousands displaced from their homes.

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