Negeri Sembilan's Proposed Water Tariff Hike To Support Long-Term Sustainability - SAINS

SEREMBAN, July 16 (Bernama) -- The proposed water tariff adjustment in Negeri Sembilan is expected to boost the state’s water supply system and asset capabilities, 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.

SAINS called for public understanding and cooperation, stressing that the tariff adjustment is necessary to improve water service delivery and infrastructure across the state, as well as ensure a sufficient supply of treated water 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.

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 water 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.

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

Previously, SPAN confirmed it had 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, Melaka, Johor and Pahang.

-- BERNAMA