GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s water usage in 2024 is the lowest per capita domestic water consumption in 24 years, says the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP).
Penangites used 261 litres per capita per day (LCD) of treated water, compared to 284 LCD in 2023, marking an 8.1% drop and the lowest since 2000 (255 LCD).
"However, it should be noted that Penang had a population of 1.3 million in 2000 compared to 1.8 million in 2024, with overall domestic water consumption increasing by 39.8% from 123 million cubic metres in 2000 to 172 million cubic metres in 2024," said PBAPP chief executive officer Datuk K. Pathmanathan.
"Nevertheless, the 261 LCD figure represents a positive step forward in domestic water conservation," added Pathmanathan in a statement on Wednesday (Jan 22).
He said although Penang did not hit the target of 256 LCD for 2024, it managed to achieve 261 LCD, which is only 1.9% short of the mark.
Pathmanathan said there are three main factors that led to the reduction, with the first being the water rates review in 2024, where revised rates motivated Penang households to consume less water to pay less for their bills.
"Secondly, enhanced public awareness, with more Penangites becoming aware of Penang's water stress status and responding positively by consciously making an effort to consume less water."
"And the third was the 'minus 10% campaign 2024' where people began responding to media statements on conserving 10% of water consumption in daily use."
Pathmanathan said PBAPP will set and announce a new per capita domestic consumption target for Penang in 2025 soon.
Regarding dam capacity, he said the Air Itam and Teluk Bahang dams were at 78.3% and 60.1% as of January 20.
"Although international weather forecasters are predicting that 2025 will be a neutral El Nino Southern Oscillation or mild La Nina year, our water supply status is 'not safe' until these dams are refilled by rainfall to higher capacities," added Pathmanathan.
