GEORGE TOWN, June 5 — The Penang State Government has introduced measures to address public concerns over the new domestic water tariff implemented by the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) in February 2024. Despite Penang maintaining the second-lowest water tariff in Malaysia, many residents have voiced dissatisfaction with the significant increase after 31 years without adjustments for the first band (20 cubic meters) and nine years for other bands.
To mitigate the impact, the State Executive Council has directed the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBA) to offer 10,000 liters of free water for every bill from July to December 2024. Additionally, the RM20 Family-Friendly Rebate for large households (eight or more members) with an income of RM5,000 and below will be expanded. These initiatives aim to alleviate financial burdens, with domestic water users receiving a rebate of RM6.20 per bill.
State executive councillor Zairil Khir Johari highlighted that users in the first tariff band will see their bill reduced from RM12.40 to RM6.20 for two months, while those in the second band, billed at RM30, will only pay RM23.80 for the same period.
