KUALA LUMPUR: MCA criticised the DAP-led Penang state government for its lack of action regarding the water disruption occurring from Jan 10 to 14, 2024.
In a joint statement by MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong and its Penang state liaison committee chairman Datuk Tan Teik Cheng, they expressed concern that thousands of factories within the state would have to temporarily halt operations, incurring substantial losses.
They claimed the Penang Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) had requested a meeting, but the state government had not yet made any arrangements.
"Does chief minister Chow Kon Yeow not fully grasp the potential immeasurable losses that could result from the closure of thousands of factories?" they questioned.
They said FMM's chairman Datuk Seri Lee Teong Li emphasised that the vast majority of factories in Penang only have a water storage capacity to sustain operations for 48 hours.
"Consequently, a continuous 96-hour water supply disruption would present significant difficulties for the manufacturing industry in maintaining its activities.
"Penang state government's indifference to the disruption caused by factory closures is reminiscent of the state government's failure to proactively present any viable solutions when Penang has been grappling with water supply issues for the entire month of December," they said, emphasising that the recurring disruptions reflect the state government's lack of awareness of public concerns.
They said hoteliers in Penang are also planning to limit the number of guests next month during the water supply disruption, resulting in a 20 per cent drop in daily revenue.
"Water reserves of hotels typically last for three days, and, as such, the Penang state government's plan for a 96-hour water supply disruption is exceptionally problematic.
"Penang's most crucial economic pillars, manufacturing and tourism, cannot withstand such a blow," they said.
Claiming that the maintenance strategy of Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) is deeply flawed, they called for a restructuring of the water authority and the appointment of skilled water management professionals.
"MCA Penang has consistently called for a restructuring of the water authority, underscoring the need for individuals incapable of fulfilling their responsibilities to step down and apologise.
"The board should subsequently appoint skilled water management professionals to take up the mantle and address the challenges effectively," they said.
They criticised Chow Kon Yeow, who is also PBAPP chairman, for the agency's incompetence and the state government's irresponsible approach.
They suggested that the Penang state government seek insights from international experts, possibly implementing gradual water cut-offs or minimising the duration of disruptions to mitigate the potential substantial impact on Penang's economy.
