Domestic consumers in Selangor who are using individual meters will start enjoying free usage of water for the first 20 cubic metres from June 1, 2008.
Those whose supply is linked to bulk meters - including flat, apartment and condominium dwellers - will not enjoy the free water just yet. [Thestar]
The state government and the water distribution concessionaire Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor (Syabas) are working on replacing the bulk meters (with individual meters)… but seems like it might take a while because of some complications.
Frankly, I would rather have cleaner water than free water… the water quality in Klang Valley has been pathetic in recent years. Set that aside, the free water should be welcome news for the lower income group.
I know there are arguments that the move might be unwise because it would encourage wastage, and that the rich would benefit from the policy. Thing is, if the poor could benefit from the free waters… it serves no harm for the rich and middle levels to enjoy the benefits as well isn’t it?
Besides, contrary to the subsidised petroleum and goods, the free water policy is implemented by reducing the cost per unit of usage… the state government (and the taxpayers) need not pay subsidies to Syabas. [Thestar] The only possible loser here is Syabas and its shareholders.
As of water wastage… it happens regardless of whether the water is free or not. People are wasting water because it’s cheap; a household of 4 would rarely used more than RM20 of water… those who would misuse the free water are probably wasting it right now, as RM20 doesn’t matter much to these people.
The challenge here is educating people to appreciate our water resources, be it free or not. It’s a matter of morals and social responsibility, which is another long story. At the meantime, appreciate the new policy, Selangor folks.
[...] the plan was first announced in March, MB Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim has said that the free water policy is implemented by reducing the cost [...]