GEORGE TOWN, May 27 — Penang maintains the second lowest domestic water rate in Malaysia for consumption up to 35m³ per month, benefiting 77.3% of Penang domestic consumers. Despite the last review being in 2015 and production costs rising by 30%, the new 2024 water rates regulated by the Federal Government ensure that Penang’s water remains affordable amidst increasing national rates.
PBAPP highlights several key reasons for the updated rates: significant hikes in electricity costs due to TNB’s Imbalance Cost Pass-Through (ICPT) and an unsustainable RM834.74 million subsidy over nine years. Penang’s per capita domestic consumption exceeds the national average, suggesting an opportunity for consumers to reduce usage and further manage costs. Notably, Penang’s average water bill is still lower than other household expenses such as electricity and internet, underscoring PBAPP’s commitment to providing financially viable water services while supporting the Penang2030 vision.
