Kota bharu: Awareness of the necessity for regular septic tank maintenance in Kelantan is notably low, with less than 10 per cent of the state’s 259,343 traditional septic tanks and 81,275 individual tanks being desludged as per schedule.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Public Works, Water Infrastructure and Rural Development Committee deputy chairman Saizol Ismail highlighted that many residents believe septic tanks should only be emptied when full or clogged. He emphasized that regular desludging is vital for environmental protection and public health safety. Saizol noted that the low desludging rate indicates a need to boost public awareness about regular septic tank maintenance.

He further explained that the issue is exacerbated by narrow access roads, particularly in villages, which hinder desludging trucks, alongside the relatively high costs associated with the process. These challenges were discussed during an engagement session and briefing on scheduled septic tank desludging services in Kelantan.

The state government, in partnership with Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd (IWK), the operator of Kelantan’s sewerage system, has initiated ‘Ops Sedut’ (desludging operation) campaigns at selected locations such as weekend markets, community programmes, and public hotspots. Additionally, awareness briefings on septic tank desludging and related sewage management acts are conducted at mosques and surau to improve public comprehension.

Saizol expressed confidence that with IWK’s expertise and collaboration with entities like the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) and the Department of Environment, efforts to modernize Kelantan’s sewerage system can be significantly advanced.