Dry spell affects water supply in Kedah, Johor

KUALA LUMPUR: The ongoing dry spell and heatwave has affected the water supply in Johor and Kedah, says Water, Land and Natural Resources Minister, Dr Xavier Jayakumar (pic).

According to Dr Jayakumar, residents in Merbok, Tanjung Dawai, Singkir, Semeling and Bedong in Kedah were affected by the heatwave.

He added that those residing in Kota Tinggi, Pontian, and Simpang Renggam in Johor were also affected.

However, Dr Jayakumar reassured that the water supply in other states was still under control.

“The ministry is ready to work together with them (Johor and Kedah) and to also channel financial assistance to upgrade (water treatment plants) in these states.

“I have asked the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) to conduct studies to find out which areas always have problems, and these areas will be given focus,” he said.

At the same time, he said that observations by SPAN found that raw water levels at most dams were still at normal levels.

He said three dams are facing low water levels - the Lebam, Layang and Pulai 2 dams in Johor.

“I want to urge Malaysians to use water carefully during the dry spell. Avoid wastage so our water resources can last longer,” he added.