IN a move towards sustainable water management, the Penang State Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed the Penang Water Resources Enactment 2025, strengthening the state’s commitment to protecting its water resources.
The bill, introduced during today’s State Assembly sitting, received full support from lawmakers across the political divide.
Tabling the bill, state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari emphasised the importance of such legislation for water resource management, similarly to what has been implemented by other states.
He noted that Selangor, Perak, Melaka, Johor, and Negeri Sembilan have established their own water statutory bodies, such as the Selangor Water Authority and Perak Water Authority, which serve as models of effective water governance.
“These enactments serve multiple purposes,” Zairil told the lawmakers during the sitting.
“They allow for better protection of water catchment areas, the formal declaration of protected zones, and the legal authority to regulate or restrict development in such areas.”
Zairil (PH-Tanjung Bunga) also highlighted the enactment’s robust enforcement mechanisms.
“Individuals or organisations found guilty of polluting rivers or water catchment areas could face severe penalties, including fines of up to RM300,000, imprisonment for up to seven years, or both.
“Additionally, any costs related to pollution cleanup, remediation, restoration, and related damages must be fully borne by the offender,” he added, saying such acts must not be tolerated.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow had earlier announced that the state viewed the importance of sustainable water resource management in light of the rising climate change.
He emphasised the need for secure, clean, and sustainable water resource planning to ensure long-term water security for the people.
Zairil said the enactment paves the way for the establishment of a dedicated water management board, which will oversee not only the management of raw water resources but also broader responsibilities related to water sustainability in Penang.
Story by Edmund Lee