THE National Water Services Commission (SPAN) wants legislation beefed up to deter water source polluters, including a maximum fine of RM20 million and a prison term of up to 20 years, the New Straits Times reported today.

Currently, the maximum fine is RM100,000.

SPAN chief executive officer Ahmad Faizal Abdul Rahman told the portal that the new punishment was part of the commission’s proposed amendments to the Water Industry Act 2006, designed to combat rampant water pollution more effectively, and in turn reduce the frequency of cuts.

Faizal said the current RM100,000 fine was not commensurate with the impact of repeated pollution incidents.

“A fine of RM100,000 may have been relevant in 2006 when this legislation was enacted,” he said.

“However, taking into account the pace of development, growing number of user accounts as well as the increased operating costs, the maximum fine should be re-evaluated.”

The proposed amendments will also allow utility companies to claim the clean-up costs from the perpetrators.

“Other amendments will allow the authorities to act against any entity posing a risk to or disrupting the water supply in any way.

“The discharge of sewage, effluents, objects or materials into any drain would also be an offence,” Faizal said.

According to Faizal, the commission was awaiting approval for its amendments from the Energy and Natural Resources Ministry, as well as the Attorney-General’s Chambers.

“We are tightening the law, including setting a more reasonable fine to show our seriousness in curbing water pollution,” he said. – February 13, 2023.