Kuala lumpur: The climate change phenomenon, particularly issues involving flood management and clean water supply, dominated the Dewan Negara debate today, with eight senators raising concerns during the second day of deliberations on the Supply (Budget) Bill 2026.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Senator Datuk Salehuddin Saidin urged the government to explore the use of groundwater reservoir technology as a long-term measure to mitigate recurring floods. He also proposed harnessing excess rainwater as an additional source of water supply and irrigation during prolonged dry spells. He noted that this approach, previously implemented in Sydney, Australia, to address recurrent flooding, was later developed into a source of drinking water and agricultural use. Salehuddin suggested it should be studied as a strategic model for states frequently affected by floods, such as Kelantan, Terengganu, and Selangor.
He highlighted that, although the approach involves significant costs, the annual losses caused by floods, such as the RM3.1 billion recorded in Selangor in 2021 and recurring nationwide flood losses amounting to RM100 million each year, make the investment worthwhile in the long term. Citing the success of the Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel (SMART), he called for larger-scale solutions for the nation’s long-term benefit amid unpredictable rainfall patterns and frequent extreme weather events due to climate change.
Salehuddin stressed the urgency of implementing pilot projects in strategic locations, noting the wide-ranging impacts of floods, including property destruction, productivity disruption, community well-being impact, and hindrance to economic activity, particularly in urban areas.
Meanwhile, Senator Datuk Dr Mohd Hatta Md Ramli raised concerns over ongoing water supply disruptions in several states, including Selangor, Sabah, and Sarawak. He pressed for government assurances on improved water supply services and prioritization of groundwater sources, which offer sustainability, cleanliness, cost-effectiveness, and stability compared to surface water sources.
Senator Datuk Anna Belle Suzieana Perian highlighted the issue of Non-Revenue Water (NRW) in Sabah, where nearly 57 percent of treated water is lost due to ageing pipelines. She noted this is among the highest rates in Southeast Asia, compared to about 25 percent in Sarawak and around 33 percent in Peninsular Malaysia. Extensive pipeline leakages have significantly affected access to clean water, underscoring the need for structural reforms, including repair systems, treatment plant upgrades, and improved governance. She mentioned that the federal government has allocated RM1 billion for Sabah’s water sector, including the replacement of about 400 kilometres of pipes in various regions.
Senator Azahar Hassan urged the government to expedite assistance to all flood victims, regardless of their relocation status, highlighting that both groups suffer significant losses.
The Dewan Negara sitting continues tomorrow.