FORMER Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng has asked the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) to support his proposal for the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) to offer rebates for water after a more than 100% tariff hike.
Lim said SPAN chairman Charles Santiago had agreed to the proposal.
Lim said this in an interview with Kwong Wah Yit Poh newspaper.
Lim's successor, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow had said in the recent Penang assembly sitting the rates could not be changed because they were approved by SPAN.
"I have confirmed with Santiago, the chairman of SPAN, that we can still apply for a water fee rebate. The committee will consider it."
Lim said there should be more more obstacles to rebates for consumers.
He urged the chief minister to listen to public opinion.
"Penang did this when it added surcharges in the past. I have also confirmed it with Santiago. If you don't believe it, you can ask him."
Lim's call for rebates has the support of 10 DAP elected representatives who attended his recent media briefing.
Almost all backbenchers want a rebate on water charges, Lim said.
Lim suggested a 20 sen rebate for per cubic metre of water.
"This is a rebate for the people of Penang to give them a year to adapt."
Santiago could not be reached for comment. - June 2, 2024.
