The Malaysia Consumers Movement (MCM) wonders how many of us would have actually realised that yesterday was World Water Day! To many of us, water is just a liquid to quench thirst, cook, clean. This is probably true but we fail to realise that water is essentially an important source to sustain our livelihood, a fundamental commodity that drives growth.

The ever-increasing need of water rises on the back of a growing population and accelerated urbanisation. Water therefore is a vital resource which upholds social sustainability.

The use of water, worse, its wastage, is rampant in Malaysia. Businesses and individuals alike show little appreciation for this vital commodity which is scarce in many parts of the world, where people are deprived for merely a sip, that too, of clean water.

Referring to the article ‘Malaysians use more water than Americans’, it was shocking to note that an average daily consumption of water by a Malaysian was currently 300 litres. This rate is said to be almost double the benchmark recommended by the United Nations (UN) in 2010, citing that an individual requires a total of 165 litres water per day.

Imagine if only one individual wastes about 50,000 litres of water per year, the number would be exorbitant if multiplied by population which runs into millions. It is certainly unacceptable to let this precious commodity be used in an improper manner.

The Malaysia Consumers Movement urges all Malaysians, including businesses, to be more prudent when using water. It is worth noting that the water shortage facing Selangor in 2015 could re-occur, and this time, it could impact more states, more people and more businesses.

The consequences of which would have a domino impact and far-reaching consequences on socio-economic growth. Considering the potential impact, the MCM urges everyone to take the lead in adopting a lifestyle change by reducing water consumption while recycling where possible.

Parents must take the lead at home in ensuring that our children are taught to appreciate water, else we should be prepared to face the consequences of our own actions.

The choice is ours.

DARSHAN SINGH DHILLON is president, Malaysia Consumers Movement (MCM).