Perak govt hailed for decision to supply treated water to Penang

GEORGE TOWN: The decision by the Perak government to sell treated water to Penang is a major milestone in a 14-year journey, says Chow Kon Yeow.

The Penang Chief Minister said efforts to secure an alternative water source for the state began in 2009.

"For so long, we have relied on a single source, Sungai Muda in Kedah.

"The Perak-Penang water project has been a priority because water is essential ... for all economic activities and life as well," he told reporters after the Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (Samenta) luncheon and installation ceremony of its northern region committee 2023-26 here on Tuesday (Nov 14).

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Chow said that this was only the first step of the deal and details have to be worked out comprehensively between the two states.

On the time frame for the deal, Chow said it is expected to take from six to 10 years, but could be implemented in phases.

On Saturday (Nov 11), Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad confirmed that the state government had agreed to sell treated water to Penang following an agreement between the state secretaries.

The matter was agreed upon before initiating the application process for an allocation from the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry to construct a water treatment plant in Kerian, Perak.

He had said the plant is expected to address irrigation challenges in Kerian and facilitate water supply for a new high-tech industrial area planned for development on a 400ha site within the district.

On Nov 2, Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said he was informed that both states had indicated their readiness to discuss the water deal.