GEORGE TOWN: In line with the restructuring of the water supply services industry nationwide, the state’s water tariff rates are expected to increase by up to more than 20 per cent.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said some users would experience a slight increase, while others would not be affected.
“It might increase by several per cent or even more than 20 per cent,” he told a press conference here today.
Chow, who is also the chairman of Penang Water Supply Corporation, said the state government would abolish the water conservation surcharge once the new tariff was announced.
“Our water tariff is the lowest in the country and even with the increase it will still be the lowest,” he added.
The water tariffs may be raised in stages this year.
Water, Land and Natural Resources Minister Dr Xavier Jayakumar said the tariff had to be raised to ensure that consumers received good quality water and services.
He said the ministry was working with the National Water Services Commission and holding discussions with state governments to get the agreement of all parties before the tariff hike was implemented.
