PENANG is considering the feasibility of tapping into underground water sources, following the example of Kumamoto City, which supplies its 740,000 residents entirely with groundwater.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow shared this development with newly appointed Japanese Consul-General Shinya Machida during the latter’s courtesy visit to Komtar today.
“During my recent investment trip to Japan, I was surprised to learn that Kumamoto City relies entirely on underground water to meet its water needs. It is truly amazing,” Chow said.
“I was also informed that in Japan, groundwater contributes to about 20 to 30 per cent of the water supply in many other prefectures.
“The company we met already has partners in Malaysia. After seeing Kumamoto City’s initiative, we are now waiting for the company to formally propose a study. In Penang, we need to explore alternative water sources.
“The first step is to determine whether there is sufficient underground water in Penang. If the supply is viable, the next step would involve building the necessary infrastructure and assessing the financial implications.”
Chow also visited a control room and a treatment plant in Kumamoto City and was impressed by the efficiency and cleanliness of the facilities, a hallmark of Japanese standards.
“At the control room, only three staff members were needed to monitor the entire treatment plant, which supplies water to 50,000 to 60,000 people,” he noted.
“Even though the water is crystal clear, they still add some chemicals to comply with safety and health regulations.”
During his six-day investment promotion trip to Japan last month, Chow, who led the InvestPenang delegation, met with 15 corporations, including existing and potential investors in Tokyo and Kyoto.
InvestPenang also participated as an exhibitor at the Kumamoto Industrial Revitalisation Expo on Feb 20 and 21, showcasing Penang’s strategic initiatives and thriving industrial landscape as a premier investment destination.
“We’ve a few firm commitments from potential investors. It is now a matter of timing before they establish their businesses here,” Chow said.
Machida, who assumed his post in Penang in December 2024, expressed his enthusiasm about being stationed in the state. He was accompanied by his deputy, Kuroe Kosuke.
“I have met many people over the past few months and look forward to strengthening ties between Japan and Malaysia,” he said.
Chow welcomed Machida’s commitment to fostering cultural exchanges and reinforcing business relations, as Japan remains a key investor in Malaysia, including in Penang.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alissala Thian