SHAH ALAM, Aug 11 — Selangor is studying desalination as a strategic alternative water source to reduce its reliance on surface water and ensure a sustainable treated water supply in the long term, the State Legislative Assembly heard today.
State executive councillor for infrastructure and agriculture Dato’ Izham Hashim said the government is conducting a feasibility study for an alternative desalination plant in Pulau Indah, Klang, to meet rising demand and reduce reliance on existing water treatment plants (WTPs).
"The study, which is being carried out by a consultant appointed by Central Spectrum (M) Sdn Bhd in collaboration with Pengurusan Air Selangor Sdn Bhd (Air Selangor), is expected to be completed in December this year.
“The feasibility study will assess the technical, economic, environmental and overall viability of the project,” he said when responding to Hulu Bernam assemblyman Mu'izzuddeen Mahyuddin during the state assembly sitting.
Izham said several potential sites have been identified along the eastern coastal area of Pulau Indah, with the final location to be determined based on the findings of the feasibility study.
"The need to explore alternative water sources is becoming increasingly important as treated water demand in Selangor is projected to rise substantially.
"Air Selangor currently records treated water demand of about 5,450 million litres per day, while demand is projected to increase to 9,653 million litres per day by 2045.”
Izham said the desalination project should be viewed as a strategic measure to reduce the state’s dependence on existing water sources rather than simply as an additional water treatment facility.
"The state is also considering the possibility of locating desalination facilities near industrial areas, where the treated water could potentially be supplied to industrial users at higher tariffs.”
He added that the water would not necessarily have to undergo treatment to drinking-water standards if it is intended for industrial applications such as cooling, potentially reducing treatment costs.
Izham said a more comprehensive study covering various alternative water sources would be undertaken under the Selangor Water Master Plan, which is expected to be completed next year.
