KUALA LUMPUR, March 22 — The issue of non-revenue water (NRW), which remains high in several states, including pipe leaks, water theft and ageing infrastructure, significantly impacts the efficiency of the country’s water supply system, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
He said efforts are being intensified to upgrade the system, strengthen monitoring, and reduce NRW rates to ensure every drop of water reaches the people.
Fadillah, who is also energy transition and water transformation minister, said the government is committed to strengthening policies and implementation in the water sector through a more sustainable and integrated approach.
“This includes investment in smart technology, holistic water resource management, and inter-agency cooperation to ensure the country’s water security,” he said in a Facebook post in conjunction with World Water Day today.
Fadillah said Malaysia is blessed with abundant water, but management and sustainability challenges are becoming increasingly complex in line with climate change and rapid development.
“We cannot take the threat of water source pollution lightly. Irresponsible activities, waste disposal, and land use changes are putting pressure on our rivers and dams,” he said.
He added that the Water Sector Transformation Roadmap (AIR 2040) is Malaysia’s long-term plan to improve the country’s water management, ensure sufficient clean water, and make the water sector more modern and sustainable.
However, Fadillah said the government’s efforts alone are not sufficient without the support of the people, and water-saving practices need to be made a daily culture.
“Use water wisely, fix leaks at home, and avoid wastage.Every small action we take has a big impact on the future of the country’s water supply,” he added.
The global World Water Day theme this year is “Water and Gender Equality”, to emphasise justice, equality, and the role of all parties regardless of gender in managing water resources.
Meanwhile, the national World Water Day theme is “Water Belongs to Everyone”, to remind us that everyone has the right to clean, safe, and sufficient water.
