Fadillah urges water firms to stay prepared amid heatwave concerns

KUCHING (March 22): Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof has reminded water supply companies in every state to remain prepared to ensure any shortages can be quickly addressed.

He said the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (Petra) is closely monitoring the situation following warnings of extreme heat in several areas in northern Peninsular Malaysia.

“The water supply companies in every state must be prepared to ensure that whatever shortages occur can be addressed, including through mobile water tanks or tanker lorries to deliver supply to affected communities,” he told reporters.

Fadillah, who is also Petra minister, told reporters this after attending the Majlis Ramah Mesra Rakyat organised by community leaders of the P194 Petra Jaya parliamentary constituency at the CIDB Convention Centre here on Sunday.

He said the current transition from the northeast monsoon to the southwest monsoon could bring hotter and more unpredictable weather conditions.

“Previously during the northeast monsoon we experienced floods and heavy rain, but when the weather turns dry during the transition period, there is a possibility of drought,” he said.

He added that the ministry is working closely with water service providers in each state to ensure sufficient supply is maintained.

“Our priority is to ensure water supply is sufficient. If shortages occur, we will ensure supply can still reach the people, whether through water tanks or tanker lorries,” he said.

Fadillah said the ministry is also monitoring water storage reservoirs to ensure they remain in good condition.

“So far, reports indicate the situation is still under control, but we will continue monitoring to ensure water supply to the people can always be maintained,” he added.

He also urged the public to practise prudent water usage during periods of hot and unpredictable weather.

“It is important for the public to use water wisely and practise conservation,” he said.