THE Federal Government, together with the Penang government and the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), is working closely to reduce water stress in Penang while supporting the state’s future growth and development.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who is also the PBAPP chairman, said billions of ringgit have been allocated to implement various water infrastructure projects that are expected to be completed before 2030.
“While the government and PBAPP continue to enhance the state’s water infrastructure capacity, the cooperation of every household in Penang is greatly appreciated in cultivating a culture of efficient and prudent water usage.
“This sustainable approach can support the state’s efforts to balance domestic per capita water consumption, from 267 litres per capita per day (LCD) in 2025 to the smart target of 250 LCD this year, for the sake of our shared future,” Chow said in his speech when opening the World Water Day celebration at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) today.
Also present were PBAPP chief executive officer Datuk K. Pathmanathan, USM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed and Water Watch Penang (WWP) president Prof Datuk Dr Chan Ngai Weng.
According to Chow, the contribution required from everyone is simply a small daily saving of around 17 litres of water per person.
“However, when this small but meaningful practice is collectively adopted by Penang’s 1.8 million residents, it could generate an extraordinary cumulative impact, with savings of up to 30.6 million litres per day (MLD).
“Based on reservoir data analysis, the collective saving of 30.6 MLD could directly reduce daily dependence on the Air Itam Dam and Teluk Bahang Dam reserves by 37.3%.
“I am confident that the awareness campaigns conducted over the years, coupled with the increase in water tariffs and other measures, have contributed to greater public awareness on the importance of using water wisely.
“Be active citizens in conserving water at home. Play a positive and proactive role in ensuring we have sufficient water supply to achieve the goals outlined under the Penang2030 vision,” Chow added.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat