Malaysia races to prevent water shortages amid drought and overuse
Malaysia is facing potential water shortages due to uncertain weather and rising consumption. Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad has warned that drought and low rainfall could strain water resources until August. Authorities are now taking steps to address the issue through new studies and public awareness campaigns. The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) has commissioned a study on tube well development to secure future water supplies. Led by the National Water Research Institute of Malaysia (NAHRIM), the research aims to identify alternative water sources in case of disruptions.
Meanwhile, water usage in Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan already exceeds the World Health Organisation’s recommended limit of 165 litres per person per day. Abdul Rahman urged the public to cut consumption to prevent a crisis, warning that wasteful habits could worsen shortages. To promote conservation, the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) is rolling out the Communication, Education and Public Awareness (CEPA) Programme. The initiative targets at least one million users by 2026, teaching efficient water use and the risks of wastage. The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) previously warned of a global 'water bankruptcy' era, adding urgency to Malaysia’s efforts. At a recent Selamat Air Raya event, SPAN also distributed RM104,000 in zakat wakalah to 200 students from various institutions, combining aid with water conservation messaging.
The government’s study on tube wells and the CEPA Programme aim to secure water supplies and reduce waste. With consumption rates above global recommendations, officials stress that public cooperation is critical. The measures come as climate risks and overuse threaten long-term water stability.
