State polls: Dig your own wells? Irresponsible statement by Kelantan deputy MB, says Nik Nazmi

KOTA BARU: Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah's suggestion to let the Kelantan people dig wells for their own water supply is an irresponsible and worrying statement, says Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

The Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister said Kelantan has long faced the issue with many not receiving clean, quality and consistent water supply.

"The people there would always complain to me about their water supply problems each time I visit, and the situation has gotten far worse lately," he said in a statement on Thursday (Aug 10).

Nik Nazmi said the PAS state government should approach the issue in a more holistic and proactive manner.

He said, however, the statement from Mohd Amar, who is caretaker Kelantan deputy mentri besar, proved that PAS has given up thinking of good solutions and leaving it to the people to deal with the issue themselves.

"May I remind you that building water wells has to comply with the government's laws and guidelines as there are risks that the water will include metallic substances, which harms one's health," he said.

Nik Nazmi also said it was unbecoming for Mohd Amar, who is PAS Panchor candidate in the state polls, to let the people carry the financial burden of digging their own water wells.

"For this coming election, I urge the Kelantan people to not vote for a state government who doesn't care about the people's welfare.

"As Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister, I will continue monitoring the water supply issue in Kelantan.

"The Prime Minister and the Madani government are also committed to overcoming the state's water supply issue by transferring direct funds and reforming Kelantan's water management company," he said.

Mohd Amar had said the water issue, especially in villages, is not a big problem and that people can dig their own wells if they have problems receiving supply.