CHIEF Minister Chow Kon Yeow has expressed confidence that his administration’s lasting legacy will be the strengthening of water supply resilience in Penang, as the state undertakes a series of major projects to secure long-term water resources.
Speaking at a dinner hosted by the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia (Rehda) Penang, Chow said that while infrastructure projects such as the Penang LRT Mutiara Line would play a major role in the state’s future, ensuring a sustainable and reliable water supply for Penangites would ultimately define his administration’s contribution.
“I may not be able to deliver all the transportation projects that people hope for. Perhaps the LRT will be the saving grace for my legacy.
“But I believe my administration’s real legacy will be ensuring water supply resilience in the state. This is even more important,” he said.
According to Chow, Penang has faced significant challenges over the past few years, including issues with raw water supply, treatment capacity, distribution networks, and non-revenue water.
To address these challenges, the state’s water operator, the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), has implemented the Water Contingency Plan 2030 (WCP 2030) to diversify water sources and reduce reliance on the state’s primary raw water source, the Sungai Muda.
Chow noted that although the river remains a shared water source with neighbouring Kedah, it will continue to play an important role in Penang’s water supply strategy.
Among the projects currently underway is the construction of a new barrage downstream of the existing structure on Sungai Muda, aimed at increasing water retention capacity.
The project will allow the state to store higher water levels and extract more raw water for treatment before it flows into the sea.
“The purpose of the new barrage is to regulate the water flow from upstream and allow us to store more water. If we do not capture it, the water will simply flow into the sea,” he said.
Another key component of the strategy involves optimising the use of the Mengkuang Dam.
Previously designated as a strategic reserve dam for emergencies, the state has now developed a new water treatment plant near the dam to increase Penang’s treatment capacity.
The project, expected to be completed next year, will allow treated water to be supplied directly from Mengkuang Dam, while preserving its role as a strategic reserve in times of crisis.
The state is also exploring new raw water sources, including the Sungai Kerian, where studies indicate that the river may yield more than 200 million litres per day (MLD) of raw water.
Based on the findings, plans are underway to construct a 114 MLD water treatment facility to tap the river as an additional source.
Chow added that these efforts will be complemented by the proposed Perak-Penang Water Supply Scheme, which aims to further strengthen Penang’s long-term water security.
He expressed hope that shareholders of PBA would approve the proposal at an upcoming extraordinary general meeting, paving the way for formal agreements with the Perak state government.
“Through these initiatives, we want to ensure that Penang remains resilient in terms of water supply and prepared for future growth,” he said.
Earlier in his speech, Chow noted that Penang continues to demonstrate strong economic fundamentals, with RM23 billion in investments secured last year and sustained growth in its industrial ecosystem.
He also pointed out that the northern region recorded more than RM37 billion in property transactions, with Penang accounting for the largest share in value.
Chow thanked Rehda Penang for its longstanding partnership with the state government, noting that collaboration between the public and private sectors remains important in shaping sustainable urban development.
“Through continuous dialogue and cooperation, we can ensure that Penang continues to grow as a vibrant, sustainable and liveable state,” he added.
Also present earlier were state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, and Rehda Penang chairman Datuk Khoo Teck Chong.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan