12MP MTR: Study on centralised industrial wastewater treatment plant underway

KUALA LUMPUR - A study on the development of a centralised industrial wastewater treatment plant is underway to manage effluents from industry to address water pollution.

According to the 12th Malaysian Plan (12MP) Mid-Term Review (MTR) released by the Ministry of Economy today, the study will propose initiatives to ensure that effluents from various sources in industrial areas are treated and discharged into rivers from a single source.

Additionally, the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and the Water Services Industry Act 2006 will be revised with amendments to both acts covering emerging environmental issues and harsher penalties to be tabled in Parliament in the remaining 12MP period.

In enhancing water supply security, the government will continue to explore alternative water sources of groundwater abstraction, rainwater harvesting and off-river storage through the construction of cost-effective infrastructure.

The approach for the National Non-Revenue Water Programme will also be expanded and revised to deliver continuous and holistic solutions for non-revenue water reduction.

The MTR said water and sewerage tariffs will also be periodically reviewed based on market segments.

"These initiatives will strengthen the financial capability of water operators in ensuring efficient, equitable and sustainable water management,” it said.

Meanwhile, to ensure sustainable water management, a comprehensive water policy will be introduced in line with the Water Sector Transformation Agenda 2040.

This resource-centric policy will incorporate various concepts including the circular economy and green economy in promoting sustainable and efficient use of water resources.

In addition, the governance of the Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) will also be strengthened to enable better coordination, and accelerate and monitor the implementation of the IRBM plan. - BERNAMA