GEORGE TOWN, February 18 – The completion of Phase 2B of the Mengkuang Dam Expansion Project (MDEP) marks a significant milestone in Penang’s efforts to bolster its water infrastructure. Yesterday, the Federal Government officially handed over Phase 2B to the Penang State Government, represented by Dato’ Haji Rosli bin Isa, the Penang State Secretary. This phase entails the laying of a 7km, 1.6m diameter raw water pipeline from the Mak Sulong Pumping Station to the Sungai Dua Canal, effectively doubling the drawdown capacity of the Expanded Mengkuang Dam (EMD) from 300 million litres per day (MLD) to 600 MLD. The enhanced capacity, valued at RM72.5 million, will play a crucial role in mitigating water supply issues during prolonged dry seasons or emergencies involving Sungai Muda.
Under normal circumstances, Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) draws over 1,000 MLD of raw water from Sungai Muda, channeled through the Sungai Dua Canal to the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant (WTP), serving approximately 465,000 consumers across Seberang Perai and Penang Island. However, during abnormal situations such as water scarcity or Sungai Muda incidents, PBAPP can now tap into the EMD’s increased capacity to supplement its water resources. Despite the significant upgrade, the current drawdown of 600 MLD remains insufficient to fully back up Sungai Muda, which underscores the need for further expansion.
To mitigate future risks and ensure uninterrupted water supply, PBAPP is proposing additional pipelines to boost the EMD’s drawdown capacity to 1,000 MLD, effectively insulating Penang from potential Sungai Muda incidents. This proactive measure aims to safeguard the interests of Penang’s diverse consumer base, including multinational corporations and the vibrant services sector, contributing substantially to the state’s economy. The proposed expansion, estimated to cost over RM100 million, will undergo thorough review and approval processes involving PBA Holdings Bhd’s Board of Directors, the Penang State Government, and the National Water Services Commission (SPAN), reflecting a concerted effort to enhance water security and preserve Penang’s socioeconomic prosperity.
