Air Kelantan Sdn Bhd (AKSB) has defended itself against an online backlash following a recent blaze in Kota Bharu, saying that the Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department had enough resources to extinguish the April 28 fire.

AKSB claimed that some social media posts discussing the fire had painted a negative image of the water management company.

In a statement today, it noted that the Fire and Rescue Department confirmed its use of water supplied by AKSB - despite low water pressure - through two fire hydrants near the Berek 12 market and in front of Perodua Yamud Berek 12.

“It (the Fire and Rescue Department) also confirmed that it had the machinery and resources including sufficient water to put out the fire,” said the water management company.

On April 28, at least five houses at Berek 12 in Kota Bharu completely burned down due to firecrackers in the 9.35am incident. Another four houses were partially damaged.

Fire at Berek 12

Residents earlier claimed that they were already without water for 11 days when the blaze happened, which was why the Fire and Rescue Department had difficulty dealing with it.

Yesterday, former exco member Husam Musa questioned AKSB on the matter.

He pointed out there were long-standing issues with the water supply and water quality in Kelantan which have caused people to suffer, including in cases of emergencies.

Increasing water supply

In the same statement today, AKSB said that the return of those celebrating the upcoming Aidilfitri celebrations has increased the demand for treated water.

Noting its previous announcements on social media as well as electronic and print media, it claimed it was ready to minimise the disruption of treated water supply to its consumers and increase its supply of treated water during the festive season.

The aftermath of the fire at Berek 12

“The Berek 12 area obtains its treated water supply from LRA Tanjung Mas. To overcome the decline in production, repair work on four wells at LRA Tanjung Mas is being implemented.

“The wells are scheduled to operate this week. Two wells have been repaired and are operational,” said AKSB, adding that there is an increase in production at the treatment plant.

It also called on the public to report any incidents of broken and leaking pipes immediately to AKSB’s official complaints platform on the myAKSB app.

The public may also Whatsapp 019-5755777 or use the 15777 hotline so that immediate action can be taken by the company.