Non-revenue water causing annual losses of over RM2 billion

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is currently focusing on efforts to address the non-revenue water (NRW) issue in the country as it is causing losses of over RM2 billion annually, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

He said the efforts include providing matching grants to assist water operators to deal with the NRW issue more effectively and sustainably.

He added that the main problem involves leaking and damaged old pipes, leading to NRW as processed water is lost due to leakage, requiring significant funding for replacement of old pipes.

“That is why one of our strategies is for any state government with NRW of more than 5%, the federal government will assist by providing grants, while those already performing well will be provided with loans to replace old pipes. This is one of our efforts, until we can resolve this issue.”

Fadillah, who is also energy transition and water transformation minister, was speaking after delivering a keynote address at the Symposium on Future Leaders of Water Sustainability 2024: Accelerating Impact for Water Resilience yesterday.

In his speech, Fadillah said the 12th Malaysia Plan outlines strategic objectives to bolster water security and sustainability by aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 6 (SDG 6), which specifically aims to enhance clean water supply and reduce NRW for a resilient water infrastructure.

He also stressed that achieving sustainable water management would require data-driven policies and collaboration between multiple stakeholders.

“Initiatives such as a centralised water data centre, aimed at enhancing decision-making processes and promoting effective resource management, is a strategic way forward.”

He said the symposium aims to address critical issues of water security and water business management.

Fadillah said it also seeks to foster cross-sector collaborations for innovative solutions and advocate sustainability in water development aligned with SDG 6.

“Our focus will be on ensuring access to safe drinking water and sanitation, sustainable management of water resources, wastewater and its ecosystems.

“To achieve these goals, we must provide an enabling platform for all stakeholders to actively participate in driving these aspirations.”