KUALA LUMPUR: According to the National Water Services Commission (SPAN), the planned adjustment of water tariffs this year is intended to ensure the sustainability of water services, rather than allowing water companies to make excessive profits. Mohd Fazil Ismail, director of SPAN’s Corporate Communications and Consumer Affairs Unit, stated that a Tariff Setting Mechanism (TSM) study had been conducted to ascertain a fair tariff adjustment for both water companies and consumers.
During an appearance on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme, Mohd Fazil remarked, “We take into account the company’s operating expenses (opex) and capital expenses (capex), and we have determined the rate (tariff) that should be implemented, and it is not the operator who determines it.”
If the increase in water tariffs is implemented this year, Mohd Fazil stated that the anticipated average increase to consumers would amount to only an additional RM3 per month. “If consumers currently pay about RM20 for their bills, it will become RM23, only a 10 sen increase per day, and it is a minimum increase imposed on consumers,” he said.
Mohd Fazil also pointed out that the current water tariffs, perceived as being too low, are preventing water companies from upgrading basic infrastructure, such as replacing pipes and facilities. “Most of the problems (with water services) are due to old pipes and facilities. They want to carry out the work (upgrading), but because the tariff is low and operators don’t have enough funds, how can the work be carried out?” he questioned.
Additionally, Amlir Ayat, the acting president of the Water Forum, supported the proposal to implement water tariff adjustments to encourage water conservation. “Some communities use water without feeling burdened, perhaps because it is cheap, but with this step, communities can teach the younger generation to use water wisely,” he remarked.
Amlir also expressed the hope that with the tariff increase, businesses and companies would not take advantage by raising prices of goods and services. “I am aware of the current economic situation, but let’s not make it difficult for existing consumers,” he concluded.- Bernama
