THE government expects to table an amendment to the Water Services Industry Act 2006 (Act 655) in June to raise the penalties for pollution of the water supply system.

Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the amendment bill is now in the review stage and will be sent to the Attorney-General’s Chambers next.

He said the maximum fine for the offence will be raised from RM100,000 to RM10 million while the prison sentence would be increased from a year to 15 years.

“The amendment also involves the listing of new offences, such as any act that causes or may cause the closure of the water supply system or disruption of water supply, including by releasing sewage, objects or materials into drains,” he said in the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was responding to a question from Che Alias Hamid (Kemaman-PN) who wished to know whether the government would amend Act 655 for impose heavier punishments on water polluters.

Nik Nazmi said the amendment to Sections 121 and 122 of the act will allow water concessionaires and users to reclaim the costs of restoring a water supply system that has been polluted.

“At the same time, the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Act 127) was in the process of being amended before parliament was dissolved (in October),” he said.

“We intend to proceed with the amendment (to punish) any kind of pollution regardless of location or jurisdiction.” – Bernama, February 16, 2023.