The National Water Services Commission (SPAN) has announced that water tariff rates will increase to an average of 22 cents per cubic meter starting 1st February. This hike means that domestic users in Peninsular Malaysia and the Federal Territory of Labuan will have to pay 5 to 27 cents more per day in their upcoming water bills, depending on their area.
According to SPAN, the adjustment is under the Tariff Setting Mechanism (TSM) and implemented based on the needs and at the request of the state governments. The commission said the adjustment is to minimise the impact of the increase on monthly water bills for the public, asserting that the move was necessary and cannot be deferred as it may jeopardise the long-term sustainability of the water service industry.
SPAN corporate communications and consumer affairs unit director Fazil Ismail commented on the hike, saying the commission conducted a TSM study to ensure a fair tariff adjustment for consumers and water companies. He said the commission accounted for multiple expenses to determine the new rate, adding that it was not the operator that determined the rate. According to Fazil, consumers will likely see an average additional increase of RM3 in their monthly bills once the tariff increase is implemented.
However, the 22-cent average increase is still low as it will not be able to cover the cost of providing water, which was last recorded to be RM1.75 per cubic meter. To minimise the impact of the new tariff on domestic users, water supply operators in each state are still advised to continue existing initiatives like providing targeted assistance to domestic users, including rebates for users in the B40 group.
Meanwhile, consumers are also urged to practice prudent water use, including using water-efficient products and recycled water as an alternative source for non-drinking purposes.
