Kuala lumpur: Groundwater should be tapped as a strategic water source and managed sustainably to ensure Malaysia's long-term water security and resilience to climate change, according to the Dewan Rakyat Special Select Committee on Environment, Science and Plantation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the committee's chairman, Datuk Ahmad Amzad Mohamed @ Hashim (PN-Kuala Terengganu), emphasized the potential benefits of using a combination of groundwater and surface water. This approach could enhance the efficiency of the water supply system and serve as a crucial reserve during droughts or water crises. He advocated for the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry (PETRA) to view groundwater as a strategic reserve, which could be activated during emergencies or drought conditions.
Ahmad Amzad highlighted that while Malaysia possesses significant groundwater resources, their current utilization is low. He noted that the country faces challenges in water resource management, pressures from rapid development, and the effects of climate change, which have led to a reduction in annual rainfall by up to 22 percent. He mentioned that this issue is one of eight key recommendations the committee has put forth, focusing on the management of groundwater resources, technology and innovation, and governance and strategic planning.
He also underscored the need to adopt modern technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and digital twins to improve the integrated monitoring and management of groundwater resources. During the briefing session, five Members of Parliament, including Tan Hong Pin (PH-Bakri) and Ahmad Tarmizi Sulaiman (PN-Sik), participated in the debate.
Tan Hong Pin expressed that the government should first focus on reducing non-revenue water (NRW) and enhancing the quality of surface water before embarking on large-scale groundwater exploration. He pointed out that the NRW rate remains high, at approximately 37 percent in 2023, with some states recording rates over 50 to 60 percent. He also warned about the potential risks of land subsidence, saltwater intrusion, and groundwater pollution associated with groundwater exploration.
Datuk Azman Nasruddin (PN-Padang Serai), in his closing remarks, stressed that implementing policies and the committee's recommendations should be phased and involve close collaboration between PETRA, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, and the Malaysian Space Agency. He highlighted the necessity for strategic collaboration among these agencies to coordinate policies, develop a central database, and implement the development of groundwater resources sustainably. Additionally, Azman emphasized the importance of public education and community awareness in protecting aquifer recharge areas and ensuring sustainable development practices.