Resolve Melaka's water woes quickly, says NGO

MELAKA: The state government should find a quick solution to the water shortage problem that Melaka faces, instead of blaming the previous administration, says a non-government organisation.

Alliance of Melaka's Young People (IGMM) president, Muhammad Fikri Mohd Ali, said the state government should take serious remedial measures to resolve the water issue now that water-rationing measures had to be imposed.

"The enthusiasm of young people to own properties in Melaka will be dimmed if water shortage occurs frequently.

"Students are also burdened by the rationing, judging from the feedback that we have received," he said on Wednesday (Feb 5).

Fikri said the water rationing exercise, which started on Jan 29, affected 62.8% or 550,673 of the population and had a big impact on the daily lives of locals.

He also said Chief Minister Adly Zahari should be commended for his dedication in trying to find an immediate solution, noting that he had prepared 132 one-stop centres to provide water to affected homes.

However, Fikri said Adly should advise some of his executive councillors (excos) to refrain from criticising young people who vent their frustrations over the water supply problem on social media.

"The state government shouldn't stop anyone from voicing out on the issue," he said.