Malaysian Court Orders TNB to Pay RM4.7 Million for Deadly 2013 Dam Flood
A Malaysian court has ordered Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) to pay RM4.7 million in damages for a deadly flood caused by dam releases in 2013. The ruling holds the company fully responsible for negligence in maintaining the Sultan Abu Bakar Dam.
The disaster on October 23, 2013, resulted in four deaths and widespread destruction after water was released from the dam three times in quick succession.
The High Court found TNB at fault for failing to properly operate and maintain the dam. It dismissed arguments that deforestation, farming, or waste disposal were the main causes of the flooding.
Each of the 100 plaintiffs received RM912,459.76 in special damages and RM30,000 in general damages. An additional RM10,000 in exemplary damages was awarded to 83 surviving plaintiffs as punishment for TNB’s negligence. The total compensation amounts to RM4,742,459.76, with an added 5% annual interest until the full sum is paid.
The court’s decision confirms TNB’s liability for the 2013 flood and its consequences. The company must now settle the awarded damages, including interest, to the affected families and survivors.
