The Penang government is taking proactive steps to address the water supply challenges faced by its residents, particularly those arising from climate change.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state has been grappling with reduced humidity levels and declining rainfall, which have severely impacted water reserves.
“Earlier this year, water levels at Penang’s main dams, Air Itam and Teluk Bahang, fell below 30% capacity, raising concerns about long-term water security.
“To mitigate these challenges, the state government, through the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), has committed to a series of projects under the Water Contingency Plan 2030,” he said when tabling the Penang 2025 Budget at the Penang Legislative Assembly today.
The plan, with a total investment of RM1.185 billion, aims to meet Penang’s increasing water demand by 2030.
“Among the key initiatives is the installation of a Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) water treatment module at the Bukit Panchor Water Treatment Plant. Operational since December 2023, this module adds 10 million litres of treated water daily to serve residents in south Seberang Perai (SPS).
“Additionally, Package 12A was completed in September this year (2024), boosting treated water production from 1,612 million litres daily to 1,726 million litres daily for distribution to areas under the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant, including parts of SPS and the southwest district,” Chow highlighted.
He further said that on the Federal level, the Penang government has sought support from the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) under the Fifth Rolling Plan of the 12th Malaysia Plan.
“A proposed RM80 million project includes the construction of the Lahar Yooi pump house to secure sustainable water supply for the state.
“Looking further ahead, the state is also advancing the Perak-Penang Water Project, which aims to fulfill water demands until 2050.
“PBAPP has prepared land for reservoirs to store treated water from Perak, should the project come to fruition.
“These efforts reflect the state government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted water supply for Penang residents, highlighting its dedication to addressing both immediate and long-term challenges,” Chow said.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud, Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar and Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi