GEORGE TOWN, November 4 — The Penang State Government has approved an initial proposal to upgrade the Penang Water Regulatory Division (BKSA) to the Penang Water Resource Board (LSAP). The new Water Resource Board aims to enhance water management across the state, focusing on five main areas: resource management and protection, sustainable usage, conservation, enforcement, and penalties.
According to Penang Infrastructure and Transport EXCO Zairil Khir Johari, the establishment of the Water Resource Board will allow the state government to adopt a comprehensive approach in managing water resources, backed by regulatory authority and expert guidance. The board will also have powers to control pollution more effectively, with provisions for licensing operators involved in water-related activities like water abstraction and for introducing charges on pollutant discharges to preserve water quality.
The Penang Government is finalizing the draft of the Water Resources Enactment and intends to table the bill in the State Legislative Assembly by May 2025. This new enactment is expected to support sustainable water practices and generate revenue for continued resource protection.
