Pahang aims to resolve 90 per cent of water issues by 2026 - MB
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail assured the public that the government is taking decisive steps to tackle the long-standing concerns surrounding water supply in the state.

SHAH ALAM – The Pahang state government has pledged to address 90 per cent of its water supply issues by the end of 2026, taking significant steps to tackle one of the state’s most pressing challenges.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail assured the public that the government is taking decisive steps to tackle the long-standing concerns surrounding water supply in the state.
“To achieve this goal, we have undertaken 120 projects, including upgrading water treatment plants and replacing aging water pipes.
"Some projects have already been completed, while others are ongoing or in the planning stages. These efforts reflect our responsiveness to the frustrations and grievances expressed by the public," he said.
Wan Rosdy shared these updates during a Town Hall session at Dewan Karangkraf on Friday.
The Jelai assemblyman also acknowledged the complexity of addressing public dissatisfaction.
"While some grievances are legitimate, others may be exaggerated or instigated.
“Despite this, we remain committed to addressing issues that impact the well-being and safety of our people responsibly,” he added.
While Pahang's financial position remains stable, Wan Rosdy highlighted the high costs of infrastructure projects, which often necessitate federal assistance.
The state oversees approximately 41,000 kilometres of federal roads, requiring significant funding for repairs. However, insufficient allocations from the federal government have created funding gaps, hindering comprehensive solutions.
To address this, the state government has actively engaged with federal authorities, including discussions with the Prime Minister, to highlight these challenges and public concerns raised on social media platforms.
Wan Rosdy stressed that instead of shifting blame, the state is urging for full allocation of requested funds to resolve road maintenance issues comprehensively.
Pahang boasts 57 per cent forest cover, equivalent to 3.06 million hectares, including critical water catchment areas serving the state and neighbouring regions like Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, and Melaka.
Of this, 1.6 million hectares are classified as Permanent Forest Reserves, with 40 per cent—approximately 643,000 hectares—designated as protected forests where logging and other activities are prohibited.
Wan Rosdy highlighted the forests’ role in mitigating floods and landslides, noting the government’s proactive measures against illegal logging.
Since establishing an enforcement unit in 2020, stricter measures, including prosecuting offenders, have significantly reduced illegal activities.
“This approach has greatly improved Pahang’s environmental condition,” he said.
To strengthen conservation efforts, the state has established the State Biodiversity Council and the State Parks Corporation.
Protected areas like the Simpang Kini and Batu Talam Forest Reserves have been gazetted to expand water catchment areas.
“Since pre-independence, Pahang’s forest reserve coverage has increased from 6.5 per cent to 12.5 per cent today.
"This steady growth reflects our unwavering commitment to safeguarding Pahang’s environment for future generations," Wan Rosdy added.
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!