Kuala lumpur: The federal government has approved an allocation of RM1.7 billion under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to replace approximately 1,800 kilometres of critical water pipes across the nation from 2026 to 2030. This initiative aims to modernize the water infrastructure and mitigate issues related to the ageing network.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad emphasized that the programme will focus on replacing ageing asbestos-cement (AC) pipes and other critical pipelines that have surpassed their design lifespan. The goal is to reduce the country's Non-Revenue Water (NRW) rate and enhance the resilience of the national water supply system. Abdul Rahman highlighted the government's commitment to ensuring that all replacement works adhere to stringent safety standards for the well-being of the citizens.

In response to Senator Datuk Wu Him Ven's query about the government's strategy for replacing asbestos-cement water pipes, Abdul Rahman noted that the Non-Revenue Water (NRW) rate for Peninsular Malaysia and the Federal Territory of Labuan was 34.4 per cent in 2025. The figure for 2026 will be finalized after the end of the reporting year.

Addressing safety concerns related to asbestos dust during the pipe replacement process, Abdul Rahman assured that all projects would comply with regulations and safety standards established by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).

In response to a supplementary question from Senator Phoong Jin Zhe regarding pipe replacement initiatives in Sabah, Abdul Rahman stated that the state has identified 110.4km of critical water pipes in need of urgent replacement, with estimated costs amounting to RM99.35 million. Additionally, the federal government has allocated RM558,000 to aid efforts in reducing Sabah's Non-Revenue Water (NRW) rate.