KOTA SAMARAHAN: Efforts to reduce Non-Revenue Water (NRW) in Malaysia are being strengthened as the government explores new strategies to improve distribution efficiency while minimising impact on consumers.
At present, the national average NRW level stands at 34.3 per cent, with several states recording figures exceeding 40 per cent.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof highlighted the ongoing challenges in managing water losses caused by leakages, aging infrastructure and inefficiencies within distribution networks.
“The government is studying various business models aimed at reducing NRW, although no final decision has been made.
“The matter is still under detailed evaluation by the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) at the federal level and including discussions involving utility companies in Sarawak.
“This collaborative approach is crucial, as any adopted model will ultimately influence water tariffs, which directly affect the people,” he said at a press conference today (Apr 13).
As part of its strategy, Fadillah said the Federal Government is providing targeted support based on NRW levels in each state.
“States with NRW rates above 40 per cent are eligible for federal grants to upgrade infrastructure such as pipelines and distribution systems,” he explained.
Meanwhile, states with NRW levels below 40 per cent are encouraged to initiate improvements using their own investments, after which the Federal Government will provide matching funds based on the level of water savings achieved.
