Tariff hike in N Sembilan for sustainability, says water company

The proposed water tariff adjustment in Negeri Sembilan is expected to boost the state’s water supply system, ensuring long-term sustainability, said Syarikat Air Negeri Sembilan Sdn Bhd (Sains).

In a statement, Sains said the new tariff structure will affect all customer categories, covering more than 490,000 accounts.

However, domestic users consuming less than 20 cubic metres per month will continue to receive subsidised rates under the revised structure.

“The proposed tariff review is currently under evaluation by the National Water Services Commission (Span) and will require federal government approval before implementation,” it said.

It called for public understanding and cooperation, stressing that the adjustment is necessary to improve water delivery and infrastructure across the state, as well as ensure a sufficient supply for the future.

One of the main challenges, it said, is ageing infrastructure, particularly asbestos cement pipes prone to frequent bursts, which often disrupt supply.

Rapid development, climate conditions

Sains said the rising demand for water is driven by rapid development in Seremban and Port Dickson, population growth, and industrial projects under the Malaysian Vision Valley 2.0 initiative.

Shifting climate conditions have also affected raw water quality, leading to higher treatment costs to meet national drinking water standards.

To address these challenges, Sains is undertaking continuous infrastructure development projects to ensure a sufficient supply for current needs and future demand across various sectors and industries.

“Sains has allocated nearly RM1.3 billion for projects under Operational Periods 5 and 6 (2021–2026) as outlined in its Business Plan.

“These include plant upgrades, construction of new treatment plants and pump houses, ‘non-revenue water’ reduction programmes, and replacement of ageing pipelines statewide,” it said.

It stressed that sustainable funding is critical to delivering these planned infrastructure projects.

Previously, Span confirmed it received tariff review applications from water operators in 10 states under its jurisdiction. Detailed assessments are still underway.

In addition to Negeri Sembilan, the states involved are Penang, Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, Selangor, Malacca, Johor, and Pahang.

- Bernama

Rep questions profit as Malacca water company seeks another tariff hike

Water tariff review in 10 states to ensure supply sustainability

Penang gives free water for first 10k litres, extends RM20 rebate

Penang water tariff hikes: Curb waste with surcharge instead, ex-CM says