Bukit chupak: Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB) is directing its efforts towards the four states with the highest Non-Revenue Water (NRW) rates in the country-Perlis, Kelantan, Kedah, and Pahang-through ongoing water infrastructure projects planned until 2050. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of the national water supply system.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, PAAB Chairman Datuk Seri Jaseni Maidinsa highlighted that data from the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) indicates Perlis has the highest NRW rate at 61.5 percent, followed by Kelantan at 53 percent, Kedah at 51.1 percent, and Pahang at 48.9 percent. These states have been prioritized due to the significant loss of treated water, which not only hampers the efficiency of their water supply systems but also contributes to the national NRW rate, currently around 34 percent.

Datuk Seri Jaseni emphasized that reducing NRW rates in these states could considerably lower the national NRW figure. He addressed these concerns during a media conference after the inauguration of the Bukit Chupak Water Treatment Plant (LRA).

The primary causes of high NRW are attributed to ageing pipeline networks and inefficiencies in water consumption measurement systems. In Kelantan, approximately 4,005 kilometers of asbestos cement (AC) pipes need replacement, a process expected to span 20 years if 200 kilometers are replaced annually. Additionally, 63,000 water meters in the state require replacement to improve water consumption accuracy and effectively reduce NRW rates.

PAAB has submitted a proposal for an investment of about RM1 billion from 2027 to 2031 for the pipe replacement program in Kelantan. This plan is subject to SPAN's approval through the state water operator's business plan. The execution of these water infrastructure projects demands significant funding, necessitating staged adjustments in water tariffs to ensure sufficient financial resources for operating costs and water supply system development.

PAAB will maintain collaboration with state governments and water operators to expedite NRW reduction projects, ensuring sustainable water supplies and improved service quality for consumers.