Penang: Penang has deferred the implementation of the water tariff adjustment under the Tariff Setting Mechanism for the Second Implementation Period by one year to July 1, 2026, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. This decision affects 715,957 water consumers in the region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the new tariff, initially set to take effect today, was anticipated to enhance the Penang Water Supply Corporation's revenue by approximately RM20 million over six months in 2026. The additional revenue is earmarked for water supply service upgrade projects, with further details to be announced in due course.
Chow outlined that for the new tariff, the monthly water bills for 79.88 percent of the 613,660 domestic consumers in Penang, who use up to 35 cubic metres per month, will see an increase ranging from RM0.30 to RM2.55. Non-domestic consumers, numbering 98,155 and using up to 200 cubic metres per month, will experience an average bill increase between RM3.60 and RM35.70.
Media reports highlighted that water tariffs for domestic consumers in most states in Peninsular Malaysia and the Federal Territory of Labuan are set to rise beginning Aug 1, after the new water tariff structure was gazetted by the National Water Services Commission (SPAN). This adjustment, however, excludes domestic users in Perak.
SPAN has emphasized that the new tariffs are part of broader efforts to establish a more sustainable water tariff structure, aiding state water operators in covering operational and maintenance costs of water supply systems.
In a separate development, Chow announced the appointment of 19 new commissioners to the Penang Hindu Endowments Board (HEB) for the term from Aug 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026. State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo will coordinate HEB-related matters for the state government. Among the new appointees are Jelutong MP RSN Rayer, Senator Dr. A. Lingeshwaran, and other notable figures, reflecting the board's commitment to advancing the socio-economic development of the Indian community in Penang.