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PENANG’S water authority has warned that increasingly erratic rainfall linked to climate change is heightening pressure on the state’s water resources, even as current supply levels remain under control.
Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) chief executive officer Datuk K. Pathmanathan said the state must intensify efforts to conserve water and adopt sustainable usage habits as it faces prolonged dry conditions and rising temperatures.
He added that while Penang is better prepared than in previous years, climate-driven weather extremes continue to pose a significant challenge.
Water levels at the state’s key dams remain manageable, supported by mitigation measures introduced in 2023 to ensure consistent supply throughout the year.
“The Air Itam Dam recorded a water level of 72%, which can sustain supply for approximately 71 days without rainfall. The Teluk Bahang Dam stands at 85.3%, with an estimated supply duration of 259 days, while the Mengkuang Dam is at 91.3%, capable of lasting about 132 days,” he said.
Pathmanathan said a series of strategic interventions has been implemented to safeguard supply, particularly for Penang Island, including the controlled release of raw water from the expanded Mengkuang Dam when necessary.
“These include the strategic release of raw water from the expanded Mengkuang Dam, when necessary, to prevent shortages and sustain long-term supply stability.
“Another key initiative is the Penang Double Dam Defence Plan (D3PI), which is an extension of the Air Itam Dam Action Plan (AIDAP).
“In addition to safeguarding areas served by the Air Itam Dam, the D3PI also extends coverage to parts of the areas served by the Teluk Bahang Dam.
“Since January 1 this year, PBAPP has also adopted a cautious approach in releasing water from the two dams on the island to prolong their operational resilience,” said Pathmanathan.
Despite these measures, he cautioned that rainfall patterns in key catchment areas have become increasingly unpredictable.
“As long as the D3PI remains workable, we will continue to manage water releases prudently to ensure a sustainable supply,” he said.
He also thanked consumers for supporting conservation efforts and urged continued vigilance in reducing household water use.
“By reducing water consumption at home, consumers can play a vital role in ensuring a sufficient and stable water supply for the state throughout the year."
The warning comes as several areas in Penang have been identified by the meteorological department as experiencing an ongoing heatwave affecting parts of the country.
Former Batu Uban assemblyman S. Raveentharan called for stronger public campaigns to conserve water resources and accelerate tree-planting initiatives to mitigate heat.
He also urged authorities to expand indoor recreational facilities to help residents cope with extreme temperatures, noting that outdoor activities have become increasingly difficult under current conditions. - March 25, 2026
