The Consumers Association of Subang and Shah Alam, Selangor (Cassa) calls upon Perbadanan Urus Air Selangor (Puas) to put aside its 'petty indifference' and work closely with three water vending operators, certified by Cassa, who provide 'value for money' service to consumers in Selangor.

Cassa investigations in this area, was initiated after growing consumer complaints on the deteriorating quality of water and health hazards feared, despite the high cost in monthly bills.

Cassa is only too aware of consumer allegations, that the quality of water that comes from our taps are muddy, smells, unsafe to drink and cook; that filters cannot handle it, the mud goes right through the taps; that clothes in washing machines are permanently ruined and bathroom tanks spew mud, together with water, after constant water cuts for days.

Because of this inexplicable situation, and consumer demand for alternatives, several business groups have come forward to provide, a value-added service and at a reasonable price.

Consumers gave Cassa valuable feedbacks on the service and value added facility provided by three such operators (Water Care Vision, Matrix Valley Holding and Twenty Cent Water) and we decided to conduct extensive research and investigations into this matter and their claims.

CASSA found that these three operators dispensed good, clean drinking water, are located strategically and at a price, which is consumer friendly 20 cents a litre and do not contravene the Water Supply Enactment 1997.

These companies already have a track record and operate without any 'interference or hassles' in several other states, which include Johor, Penang, Perak and Malacca.

Internationally, the service provided by the water vending operators are a popular alternative, in the following countries: USA (10 years), Canada (three years), Korea (five years), China (three years), Taiwan (seven years), Thailand (five years) and Japan (five years)!

Cassa is convinced that the machines used are not a health hazard, as they are regularly maintained, the quality of water from the machines comply with the Ministry of Health's Food Act Schedule 25, is tested by a registered laboratory on a quarterly basis and there is no fear of a "backflow".

The machines used are presently being tested and qualified by Sirim Malaysia and expected to be endorsed by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumers Affairs.

Cassa is aware that the three companies have also put in place a 'Complaints Redress Mechanism' with RM1million 'product liability coverage' for the public.

As such, Cassa has decided to intercede, mobilise representation in this matter with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumers Affairs, Ministry of Works, and the Prime Minister's Office to resolve the present "misunderstanding and indifference" between Puas and these three service providers, while acting, as a watchdog to protect long-term consumer interest to safe drinking water.