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Supporting the strategic necessity of the Perak-Penang water pact

Published July 15, 2026 at 11:31 PM UTC

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The new water agreement represents a vital investment in Penang's long-term economic and social stability. By securing a guaranteed supply of 300 to 500 million litres of treated water daily, the state is effectively future-proofing its industrial sectors and residential needs against the risks of climate change and potential shortages. Proponents argue that the RM210 million annual capacity charge is a reasonable price to pay for such security, especially since the infrastructure costs—estimated at RM8.4 billion—are being borne by the Perak-based developer rather than Penang's taxpayers. This arrangement allows Penang to bypass the massive capital expenditure typically required for such large-scale water projects while ensuring a reliable flow of water for decades to come.