No more delays to Penang water tariff hike

The Penang state government has firmly stated that it will not entertain any further postponements of the water tariff increase. This decision comes after the implementation was already deferred for approximately one year.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow explained that the new water tariffs were officially gazetted by the Federal Government through the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) on July 30 of the previous year. He noted that several other states have since implemented their revised rates. Penang could have enforced the new tariffs on August 1 last year but chose to delay it until July 1 of the current year. "So, if we take into account this period, we have already postponed it for almost a year. Will we postpone it again?" Chow questioned.

Chow's remarks were in response to a recent call from Bagan Member of Parliament Lim Guan Eng, who urged for another year-long postponement. Lim Guan Eng argued that the public remains concerned about the new rates, which represent an increase from the current average rate to 62 sen per cubic meter used.

However, Chow emphasized the importance of implementing the new tariffs. He stated that the revised rates are crucial to ensure the state water operator has the financial capacity to fund various projects. These projects are essential for strengthening water supply security within Penang.

“

So, if we take into account this period, we have already postponed it for almost a year. Will we postpone it again?