No rebates for those affected by Penang water crisis: CM

GEORGE TOWN – There will be no rebates for consumers affected by water supply disruptions last week in Penang, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

He said Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) was also affected by the shutdown of the Sg Dua water treatment plant as it had to mobilise machinery and some 400 staffers.

“PBAPP was also affected by this incident because the water treatment plant could not operate properly. We take note of this proposal, but there is no further discussion on the matter.”

At a press conference in Komtar today, he admitted there was weakness in relaying information during last week’s water crisis in Penang after being called a “boiling kettle” by state MCA.

However, he said the PBAPP and the state government would strive to provide timely information to the people through various channels.

“I have also instructed PBAPP to conduct a report on this matter and it will be presented to the state exco.”

In a renewed vitriol against DAP yesterday, Penang MCA labelled Chow as a “boiling kettle”, following the perceived notion that residents here had failed to receive prior notification over the water crisis that hit the state last week.

As rumours of a 15th general election continue to loom, MCA’s renewed criticism of the Tanjong MP as “Chow Teh Ko”, a Hokkien term for Chow being a boiling kettle, is aimed at appealing to the Chinese community in the state.

Penang MCA also wanted PBAPP to give special rebates to all consumers, especially to factories and business centres, which had to be closed due to water supply disruptions.

Last week, mudslides in Baling, Kedah forced the Sg Dua water treatment plant in Butterworth – which provides 80% of the state’s total water supply – to shut temporarily after muddy water filled up the intake.

The flood disaster in Baling on July 4 claimed three lives and affected 1,490 villagers. – The Vibes, July 15, 2022