GEORGE TOWN, February 23 — Pathmanathan K., chief executive officer of Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang (PBAPP), announced the activation of the Sungai Muda Contingency Plan 2026 (SMCP 2026) following a sharp decline in the Muda Dam’s capacity to 20 per cent as of Feb 20.
Down from 84.6 per cent on Jan 1. The Beris Dam, which also releases water into Sungai Muda — Penang’s primary raw water source — stood at 78.1 per cent on Feb 16. PBAPP said the plan aims to safeguard water supply by maximising raw water abstraction from Sungai Muda.
Utilising the Expanded Mengkuang Dam as backup, and continuing treated water transfers under its Double Dam Defence programme, noting that Sungai Muda supplied about 85.5 per cent of Penang’s treated water needs in 2025.
While current water supply in Penang remains stable, uncertainties over the timing and volume of the upcoming rainy season due to climate change have prompted the utility to urge consumers to use water wisely.
Particularly during the Chinese New Year and Ramadan period. Domestic consumption accounted for 55.7 per cent of total water usage last year, and PBAPP stressed that public cooperation will be crucial to ensuring sufficient supply throughout 2026.
