Kedah Opposition Presses State to Act After Bukit Selambau Water Project Stalls, Affecting 15,000 Users
ALOR SETAR : The stalled upgrade of the Bukit Selambau Water Treatment Plant has triggered renewed scrutiny over project execution and infrastructure planning in Kedah, with the opposition warning of prolonged consequences for water supply reliability.
Bau Wong Bau Ek said the project’s suspension following repeated delays highlights deeper issues in contractor performance and oversight. Despite being granted four extensions of time, the contractor reportedly failed to deliver, forcing the project to a halt.
He stressed that the implications extend beyond administrative setbacks, as an estimated 15,000 users in Sungai Petani, Sungai Lalang, Merbok and Tanjung Dawai are directly affected by the disruption. The delay, he cautioned, could exacerbate existing supply challenges, particularly during peak demand periods.
Speaking during the Kedah State Legislative Assembly session, Bau Wong called on the state government to reassess its approach to critical infrastructure projects. He urged authorities to swiftly appoint a more capable contractor and introduce stricter monitoring mechanisms to prevent recurring delays.
The Bukit Selambau facility forms part of Kedah’s broader plan to enhance water treatment capacity and build resilience against future shortages. However, the interruption has underscored the risks of inadequate project management in essential public utilities.
Bau Wong highlighted that Kedah’s rapid urban expansion demands a more integrated infrastructure strategy. He warned that approving new housing developments without ensuring sufficient water capacity could lead to widespread issues, including inconsistent supply and reduced pressure for residents.
Effective coordination, he said, is crucial between developers and Syarikat Air Darul Aman to ensure that infrastructure upgrades keep pace with population growth. Without such alignment, the state risks creating systemic gaps that may take years to resolve.
He also pointed out that water supply reliability is closely linked to broader economic and social outcomes. Inadequate infrastructure can undermine investor confidence, affect property values and disrupt daily life for communities.
The discussion extended to environmental and agricultural concerns, particularly as prolonged hot weather continues to impact padi cultivation. Bau Wong proposed structured water distribution measures to ensure equitable access for farmers while minimising inefficiencies in downstream areas.
In addition, he called on the Department of Environment Malaysia to intensify enforcement against open burning, noting that environmental degradation could further strain water resources during dry conditions.
The Bukit Selambau case has become emblematic of broader challenges in infrastructure delivery, highlighting the need for stronger governance, better planning and timely execution. As Kedah continues to grow, ensuring the reliability of essential services such as water supply remains a critical priority.
-wilayah.com.my
