Penang defends hike in water tariffs, says now is the best time

PENANG has defended its decision to revise domestic water tariff charges despite reservations by some elected representatives over concerns that it may affect the already record high food and drink prices here.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said that contrary to concerns by certain quarters, now is the most opportune time, as the 600,000 domestic consumers have realised the importance of conservation following last week's mega-scheduled water cuts.

"The people saw what happened and now the message of reducing wastage and conserving the precious commodity is there for them to see."

Furthermore, the additional revenue earned by the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), would be used to improve the water delivery facilities, Chow told a press conference here.

The water authority had announced a slew of upgrade projects, costing more than RM1 billion to improve connectivity for various consumers and to ensure the state has good contingency plans in the event of disruptions to the raw water supply.

PBAPP continues to subsidise the needy such as the B40, who can apply for rebates, while the minimum charge is now RM6, a hike of 50 sen only compared to RM5.50, which was the previous rate. 

Chow said that the state was careful in not burdening the consumers here.

"The driving principle of the new tariff is based on usage. If one uses a lot of water then one has to pay more and if one uses less, the charges would likewise be less."

The hike in tariffs is also a national exercise but in Penang, the rates fixed by PBAPP indicate that it remains among the lowest in the country, said Chow.

The new rate revision shows that 77% of some 600,000 households in Penang will pay RM10.85 monthly while 52% will only pay RM6.20 monthly.

Such rates remain among the lowest in the country, Chow said.

Some state assemblymen shared their concerns with The Vibes, saying that the timing of the hike is inappropriate, as it came just days after the unprecedented water cuts in Penang.

Although the supply was restored without hindrance within 48 - hours, the assemblymen said that some pockets of consumers suffered for up to four days.

"The hike should have also come after the Thaipusam and Chinese New Year celebrations as such festivities see a greater use of water," said one assemblyman.

However, since the state has invoked the hike, the assemblymen accept it, but they hope that it will not drive up consumer prices. –  The Vibes, January 18, 2024.