Act needed to ensure safe drinking water

SAFE drinking water is a fundamental requirement for maintaining public health and supporting healthy communities. Hence, mechanisms must be put in place to ensure that the delivery of safe drinking water is both practical and protective of public health.

The Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) agrees with Saral James, president of the Malaysian Water Forum, that the agencies concerned are failing in their duty to provide safe water to Malaysian consumers, “Tackling issues of water safety and usage” (The Star, Oct 26).

Since 2003, Fomca has been advocating for a Safe Drinking Water Act to ensure that consumers have access to safe water and protects public drinking water supplies throughout the nation. This law would appoint a regulator who would be responsible for setting the minimum health standards for tap water and require all owners or operators of the public water systems to comply with these standards.

The United Nations considers universal access to clean water a basic human right and an essential step towards improving living standards worldwide. Fomca urges the current government to ensure safe water is enjoyed by all Malaysians.

PROF EMERITUS DATUK DR MARIMUTHU NADASON

President

Fomca