PBAPP boosts water supply for Penang with new projects

Penang’s water provider, Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), is rolling out several major water supply projects under its Water Contingency Plan 2030 (WCP 2030) to meet the growing demand for water consumption across the state.

With an investment of RM1.18 billion, these initiatives aim to increase water treatment capacity and ensure sustainable supply for Penangites.

Enhancing water capacity through key projects

PBAPP’s latest achievement is the completion of Package 12A of the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant (WTP), which was officially opened by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

This new addition will increase the state’s maximum water treatment capacity by 114 million litres per day (MLD), from 1,612 MLD to 1,726 MLD.

“With Package 12A now operational, we are significantly strengthening our water supply system.

This is part of eight key projects under the WCP 2030, and upon completion, we expect to boost Penang’s water capacity by over 600 MLD by 2028,” said Chow, who is also the chairman of PBAPP.

These initiatives are crucial in addressing the rising demand for water in households, ensuring Penang’s water supply remains secure until 2050.

Future pipeline projects and infrastructure upgrades

PBAPP is also set to undertake three major pipeline projects in 2025 and 2026, valued at RM189 million. These projects are expected to improve water delivery for both residents and businesses across Penang.

The projects include:

• A 13.0 km pipeline from Sungai Dua WTP to Butterworth.
• A 3.9 km pipeline on Penang Island from the Macallum area to the Bukit Dumbar Reservoir and Pumping Station Complex.
• The Sungai Perai River Crossing Pipeline Project in Seberang Perai.

“The goal is to decentralise Penang’s water distribution system to reduce over-reliance on Sungai Dua WTP. This will ensure a more balanced and efficient water supply network,” Chow explained.

In addition to these projects, PBAPP is planning the construction of a new 114 MLD WTP at the expanded Mengkuang Dam in central Seberang Perai.

Two more WTPs will be built at Sungai Muda and Sungai Kerian, further enhancing Penang’s water infrastructure.

PBAPP’s commitment to improving the state’s water supply was reaffirmed by its CEO, Datuk K. Pathmanathan, who emphasised the organisation’s focus on upgrading Penang’s water distribution network.

“Our priority is ensuring the smooth delivery of treated water, safeguarding the interests of both consumers and businesses,” Pathmanathan said.

Chow also highlighted that while these water projects are advancing, Penang is still awaiting the Perak-Penang Water Project, which is expected to play a crucial role in the state’s future water supply.

The projects undertaken by PBAPP are designed not only to meet current demands but also to future-proof Penang’s water supply, providing long-term solutions for the growing population and industries.

Source: Buletin Mutiara