GEORGE TOWN, January 23 — In 2024, Penang achieved its lowest per capita domestic water consumption in 24 years, with residents using an average of 261 litres per capita per day (LCD), an 8.1% reduction from 284 LCD in 2023. While this marked progress, the figure fell slightly short of the targeted 256 LCD set during World Water Day 2024.
Despite the reduction in per capita usage, Penang’s growing population—now 1.8 million compared to 1.3 million in 2000—meant overall water consumption rose by 39.8% over the same period, from 123 million m³ to 172 million m³. Key factors driving this reduction included revised water tariffs implemented in 2024, heightened public awareness due to the El Niño-induced water stress, and PBAPP’s “Minus 10%” conservation campaign.
Enhanced efforts, such as promoting water-saving practices through media releases, successfully encouraged Penangites to adopt measures like reducing vehicle washing and minimizing water wastage at home. Moving forward, PBAPP plans to set a new conservation target for 2025, urging residents to aim closer to the national average of 237 LCD and Singapore’s benchmark of 141 LCD while prioritizing the replenishment of key dams to ensure water security.
