GEORGE TOWN, April 29 — National Water Services Commission (SPAN), in collaboration with Indah Water Konsortium (IWK), has launched a three-day surprise enforcement operation.
Targeting nearly 205 premises in Penang for failing to carry out scheduled septic tank desludging. The operation, running from April 28 to 30.
Will see authorities inspect commercial, industrial and residential properties, with 56 notices already issued on the first day.
SPAN warned that non-compliance could result in fines of up to RM50,000 under the Water Services Industry Act 2006.
Officials highlighted that only 12% of over 1.38 million septic tanks nationwide meet maintenance requirements, while Penang records just 18% compliance.
SPAN operations director Mohd Jalaludin Sulaiman said owners have 14 days to rectify issues or face legal action.
He stressed that neglected septic tanks can cause sewage overflows, environmental pollution and public health risks.
Authorities also urged property owners to comply with desludging schedules—every two years within local authority areas and three years outside, to ensure proper sanitation and environmental protection.
