The Hidden Persistent Problems Related to Water Sustainability in Malaysia
Water sustainability is a pressing issue in Malaysia, a country blessed with abundant water resources, yet facing increasing challenges related to water scarcity, pollution, and climate change. While Malaysia has made significant progress in water management over the years, there are still hidden persistent problems that need urgent attention. In this article, we will explore some of these hidden issues and their impact on water sustainability in Malaysia.
1. Aging Water Infrastructure
One of the hidden persistent problems related to water sustainability in Malaysia is aging water infrastructure. Much of the country’s water supply infrastructure, including dams, treatment plants, pipes, and distribution networks, was built several decades ago and is in need of repair, maintenance, and upgrading. Aging infrastructure is prone to leaks, bursts, and failures, leading to water losses, supply disruptions, and inefficiencies in the water supply system.
2. Non-Revenue Water (NRW) Losses
Non-revenue water (NRW) losses are another hidden problem that is undermining water sustainability in Malaysia. NRW refers to water that is lost before it reaches consumers due to leaks, bursts, theft, or unauthorized consumption. According to the National Water Services Commission (SPAN), Malaysia’s NRW rate was 35.9% in 2019, well above the global best practice of 20%. High NRW rates not only result in water losses and revenue losses for water utilities but also contribute to water scarcity and inefficiency in the water supply system.
3. Unequal Access to Clean Water
Despite Malaysia’s relatively high level of water coverage, there are still disparities in access to clean water, particularly in rural and remote areas and among marginalized communities. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), about 1 in 10 people in rural areas of Malaysia do not have access to clean water, compared to 1 in 100 people in urban areas. Unequal access to clean water not only undermines public health and sanitation but also perpetuates social and economic inequalities in the country.
4. Water Pollution from Agriculture
Agricultural runoff is a significant source of water pollution in Malaysia, yet it remains a hidden problem that is often overlooked. Pesticides, fertilizers, and other agrochemicals used in agriculture can contaminate rivers, lakes, and groundwater, threatening aquatic ecosystems and the health of millions of people who depend on clean water for drinking, sanitation, and irrigation. According to the Department of Environment, agriculture is the largest source of water pollution in Malaysia, accounting for 38% of total water pollution.
5. Inadequate Wastewater Treatment
Inadequate wastewater treatment is another hidden problem that is contributing to water pollution and undermining water sustainability in Malaysia. According to the Department of Environment, only about 45% of wastewater generated in Malaysia is treated before being discharged into the environment. The rest is discharged untreated or partially treated, contaminating water sources and threatening public health and the environment. Inadequate wastewater treatment not only contributes to water pollution but also undermines efforts to achieve sustainable water management in the country.
6. Impact of Climate Change
Climate change is exacerbating many of the hidden persistent problems related to water sustainability in Malaysia. Changing precipitation patterns, increasing temperatures, and more frequent and intense extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, are putting pressure on water resources, exacerbating water scarcity, and increasing the risk of water-related disasters. Climate change is also affecting water quality, with rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns leading to increased algal blooms, contamination, and waterborne diseases.
Addressing the Hidden Persistent Problems
Addressing the hidden persistent problems related to water sustainability in Malaysia requires a multi-faceted approach that involves government, water utilities, civil society organizations, and the private sector. Some key strategies for addressing these problems include:
1. Investing in Infrastructure
Investing in upgrading and modernizing water infrastructure, including dams, treatment plants, pipes, and distribution networks, to reduce leaks, bursts, and losses in the water supply system.
2. Reducing Non-Revenue Water (NRW) Losses
Implementing measures to reduce NRW losses, such as leak detection and repair, pressure management, metering, and consumer education and engagement.
3. Ensuring Equal Access to Clean Water
Implementing policies and programs to ensure equal access to clean water for all Malaysians, particularly in rural and remote areas and among marginalized communities.
4. Strengthening Regulation and Enforcement
Strengthening regulations and enforcement mechanisms to prevent water pollution from agriculture and industry, and to ensure that wastewater is treated before being discharged into the environment.
5. Building Climate Resilience
Building climate resilience by investing in climate-resilient water infrastructure, implementing adaptive water management strategies, and protecting and restoring natural ecosystems.
Conclusion
Addressing the hidden persistent problems related to water sustainability in Malaysia is crucial for ensuring that the country’s water resources remain clean, abundant, and accessible for current and future generations. By investing in infrastructure, reducing non-revenue water losses, ensuring equal access to clean water, strengthening regulation and enforcement, and building climate resilience, Malaysia can address these hidden problems and ensure the long-term sustainability of its water resources. The time to act is now, and by working together, we can build a more sustainable and resilient water future for all.