All talk, no action: Sanusi’s water threats ‘unbeneficial’, says Chow

GEORGE TOWN – “All talk, no action” was how Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow described Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor’s approach towards the thorny water issue between the states.

This comes as Sanusi recently appointed a panel of lawyers through consultants to resolve the issue, which has been ongoing for some time, as Penang awaits legal action.

“My comment remains the same. We will see him in court,” said Chow.

“We have been waiting. He talks to the press, but these updates are not beneficial to anyone. If he really wants this issue to be solved, then let’s go to court,” he told the press today.

Chow added that Penang has its arguments ready, but whether the court process goes through will depend on the findings of the investigation conducted by the lawyers. 

He said that every party has its rights, and the matter should be settled based on existing laws. 

“As it is not a novel thing, especially in Europe, that one river can flow through many countries, this issue can be solved according to international laws and agreements seen from the many conventions held to manage the use of water.”

Chow said that sustainability has to be at the forefront of this issue, as both parties have the right to use water without affecting each other and generations to come.

On Saturday, Sanusi told the press that Penang is not serious about paying for water that comes from Kedah.

“We have appointed a panel of lawyers through consultants because we are very serious about this issue. Kedah will demand this raw water charge in any way it can,” he said when attending the Prosperous Family Leisure Cycling Programme at Dataran Zero Kilometer Sg Farmers here that day.

“We are not ancient people who will let go of an issue just like that. Syarikat Air Darul Aman also makes payments to the Kedah State Water Resources Board.”

The Kedah government had previously submitted a written demand to Penang to pay a raw water charge of RM50 million a year, as the Penang Water Supply Corporation obtains its water supply from Sg Ulu Muda, which originates from Kedah. – The Vibes, January 3, 2022