HOLDING back from washing clothes daily and reducing shower time are among the steps taken by Penang residents to conserve water following the state government’s announcement that raw water levels in two major dams are now at a critical level.

Residents told The Malaysian Insight while they have yet to experience any water shortages, they are preparing to face the worst as any disruption will surely affect their daily lives.

They added that the state government must also provide water via alternate means if the water levels at the dams continue to decline.

George Town resident Maheran Wan Ariffin, 59, said his household has started rationing daily water usage.

“If we used the washing machine daily before, we now wait for two to three days before washing our clothes,” he said, adding that he also reuses water for his plants.

Maheran hopes water levels at the dams start rising soon so residents do not have to face water rationing or cuts.

“I hope we do not need to ration water. If it happens at all, we hope there is still enough drinking water to avoid health problems this dry season,” he said.

Muhammad Shahrizul Mu’izz, a 27-year-old civil servant, said the dry season is a lesson for all to use water sparingly.

“I have shortened my shower time to be less than eight minutes. We also need to use the low-pressure showers, especially when brushing teeth, washing your face or shaving.

“I have also replaced my old perforated pipe with a new one to avoid wasting water,” he added.

Yesterday the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) said water supply at the Air Itam Dam now stands at 62%, while the Teluk Bahang Dam’s water level is only at 39.5%.

PBAPP CEO Jaseni Maidinsa said low rainfall and climate change were the primary causes for the dramatic reduction in both the dams, adding that the drought is expected to last until the end of March.

When contacted by The Malaysian Insight on what are the corporation’s plans, Jaseni said water will be supplied from Seberang Perai to Penang dams to maintain the water level.

“I also ask the people of Penang to use water wisely.

“If the percentage drops to 30%, we will advise the state government to conduct cloud seeding,” he told The Malaysian Insight.

A food stall operator in Taman Manggis, George Town, 34-year-old Norzalehawati Abd Rahman, said the state government must provide water in tankers for flat residents in the area if there is a water shortage.

He said most people in the B40 group will be stuck without water supply.

“My kuih business will have to be closed if there is no water supply,” he said. – January 16, 2020.