THE Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) will ensure close communication with consumers to keep them updated during the scheduled water supply interruption (SWSI) from April 25 to 28.
While acknowledging there were hiccups during 2023 's SWSI, PBAPP chief executive officer Datuk K. Pathmanathan has reassured that the water authority is better equipped to restore supply within the stipulated periods.
“We urge consumers, particularly those in end-of-line and higher ground areas, to store sufficient water a few days in advance of the SWSI,” he said.
Water would be restored in stages where 88% of the affected consumers, are expected to enjoy normalcy in supply within 48-hours of SWSI.
PBAPP is targeting an 88% water supply recovery — benefiting 309,185 of the 341,708 affected accounts — within 48 hours.
More attention would also be devoted towards an effective communication platform to ensure all complaints are duly addressed.
PBAPP head of customer service Dr Mohd Nizam Omar announced that PBAPP will activate a 24-hour call centre throughout the duration of the SWSI.
“The call centre will be operated by 25 trained agents from the PBAPP Customer Service Department. Additionally, backup agents will be deployed from nine customer care centres across Penang,” he said.
The call centre will commence operations at 10pm on April 25 and a soft launch, officiated by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, is scheduled for April 15.
The 24 - hour number is listed as 04-509 6509.
Nizam said that the public can also reach PBAPP via various channels, including social media, the myPBA app, email, and dedicated WhatsApp groups managed by district offices.
On the SWSI communication strategy, Pathmanathan said PBAPP will issue regular updates across all social media platforms, in addition to utilising television, radio, and banners at key locations.
“Briefing sessions will also be conducted with key stakeholders such as industry players, hospitals, and schools to keep them informed,” he said during an engagement session with elected representatives at the Jen Hotel.
The SWSI will allow PBAPP to complete the critical pipeline crossing at Sungai Perai and concurrently carry out 23 waterworks projects across nine installations.
Earlier, Chow announced that the interruption will last up to 60 hours (2.5 days), urging residents to store enough water over the period.
“The primary goal is to finalise the connection of the pipeline crossing Sungai Perai at Kampong Teluk and Ampang Jajar, replacing temporary pipes installed following bursts in December 2023 and January 2024,” said Chow.
Chow said although the scheduled shutdown spans 60 hours, majority of those affected should get back supply within 24 to 48-hours. – April 9, 2025
