Natural disasters caused by heavy rainfall, such as flooding and waterlogging during the rainy season, are becoming increasingly frequent. Rapid urban development, coupled with the escalating risks of climate change and extreme weather events, has heightened the urgency for innovative solutions to manage urban flooding. One promising approach is the concept of sponge cities—urban landscapes designed to absorb, store, and utilise rainwater efficiently.
A sponge city leverages natural and green infrastructure to absorb and manage water, mitigating the effects of urban flooding—a challenge significantly worsened by climate change. Beyond flood control, sponge cities promote ecological sustainability by improving the urban environment. This approach addresses material factors essential to social production and quality of life, providing a comprehensive solution to urban water management issues.
In Penang, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow is championing the transformation of the state into a sponge city to tackle urban flooding and enhance environmental sustainability. This initiative aligns with the Penang Structure Plan 2030 and the Penang Green Agenda 2030, which emphasise the integration of green infrastructure and the preservation of natural ecosystems. A key component of these efforts is the conservation of forest ecosystems, including the identification of 1,619.22 acres of potential peat swamp forests for gazettement as permanent forest reserves under the National Forestry Act 1984.
To date, 449.12 hectares in Penang’s southwest district have been identified for conservation. Since 2019, the state has expanded its permanent forest reserves by 18.8%, totaling 6,063.25 hectares as of 2024, complemented by the 1,182-hectare Penang National Park. These initiatives have earned Penang RM5.2 million in Ecological Fiscal Transfer for Biodiversity (EFT) funding from the Federal Government this year, underscoring the state’s commitment to sustainable development.
The construction of sponge cities offers multiple benefits beyond flood mitigation. By reducing the urban heat island effect, controlling water pollution, and creating green spaces, sponge cities contribute to a healthier and more sustainable urban environment. These advantages are particularly relevant in tropical monsoon climates like Penang’s, where heavy rainfall and high temperatures pose ongoing challenges to urban development.
Penang’s adoption of the sponge city model demonstrates its proactive stance in addressing climate change and urban flooding while fostering a greener and more resilient future for its residents.
References
[1] Vimal, K. Moving towards ‘sponge city’. (2024). Bulletin Mutiara, Nov 22, p.2. https://www.buletinmutiara.com/penang-aims-to-become-sponge-city-with-green-initiatives/
[2} See footnote 1 .