Kuala lumpur: Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB) is strengthening its commitment to ensuring the people of Kelantan enjoy a more stable, high-quality and sustainable water supply through four water treatment plant (LRA) projects to be implemented in phases by 2030. The projects involve the Chicha 2, Tok Bali, Bukit Chupak, and Machang LRAs, which are among the key initiatives to increase treated water production capacity and strengthen the state's water supply system.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Air Kelantan Sdn Bhd (AKSB) general manager Azhar Hanafi stated that under PAAB's financing model, several major projects could be implemented more systematically without placing excessive financial pressure on the state's water operator. Financial constraints due to the high cost and long implementation period of water infrastructure projects had previously been a main challenge for the company.
Azhar elaborated on AKSB's transformation plan, which includes a comprehensive approach involving cooperation from the federal and state governments, PAAB, and other stakeholders to enhance Kelantan's water supply system. The transformation requires substantial investment, as it involves constructing new treatment plants, replacing aging pipes, building storage tanks, and adopting advanced monitoring technology.
PAAB's role extends beyond financing; it serves as a strategic partner, allowing AKSB to focus on improving operations, maintenance, and service quality. As of May 2026, PAAB chairman Datuk Seri Jaseni Maidinsa reported that RM1.63 billion had been allocated for the development of Kelantan's water supply infrastructure. The allocation includes RM264.28 million for completed projects, RM376.34 million for projects under construction, and RM991.41 million for projects in the planning and design stages.
Jaseni emphasized that these projects are expected to significantly impact residents who have long faced clean water supply shortages, setting a new benchmark and catalyst for Kelantan's water sector development. PAAB will continue collaborating with the Kelantan government and AKSB to realize the state's agenda of improving its water supply system.
The RM70.76 million Bukit Chupak Water LRA, inaugurated on June 11, with a capacity of 10 million litres per day (MLD), has already benefited over 20,000 residents in Gua Musang, resolving long-standing water supply issues. The RM55 million Chicha 2 LRA, with a capacity of 20 MLD, is slated for completion in October 2026. The Tok Bali LRA, costing RM162.26 million and with a 50 MLD capacity, is scheduled for full completion in January 2028. The Machang LRA, to be completed in 2030 at a cost of RM500 million, will boast a capacity of up to 120 MLD, significantly enhancing Kelantan's long-term water supply security.
Several residents expressed their approval of the efforts. Yusairi Ahmad, 44, highlighted the hope these projects bring and stressed the importance of timely completion. "We are not looking for temporary solutions. We want lasting change and access to clean water for the long term," he said. Trader Sarimah Hassan, 50, noted that improved water infrastructure would provide a cleaner supply, stimulate local economic activity, and boost business confidence.