GEORGE TOWN, Oct. 14 -- A total of 53 areas in Penang have been identified as flood hotspots based on records of flooding in the area in the past three years.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said 10 of the hotspots are in the northeast district on the island, 13 in the southwest district, six in North Seberang Perai, 18 in Central Seberang Perai, and six in South Seberang Perai.

He said only areas that recorded floods more than three times in the past three years have been identified as flood hotspots.

"With these hotspots, we can specify which areas to focus on for effective prevention to reduce risks and impact on residents," he said at the launch of the state disaster command centre in Komtar today.

He said a total 389 temporar...