Water resources should be a matter of national security, says Santiago

KUALA LUMPUR – The country needs to view the management of water resources from a national security lens, especially in facing the uncertainties of climate change, said National Water Services Commission chairman Charles Santiago.

The former Klang MP said the move would give the water sector the highest priority in government planning and resource allocation. 

“The 2024 budget allocates RM1.1 billion for infrastructure development for the three states of Sabah, Labuan and Kelantan. 

“However, the building of five LCS naval ships costs RM11.9 billion despite us not being at war. 

“If the water sector gets a thumping RM11.9 billion, (it would lead towards) tremendous gains by reducing non-revenue water, push towards reclaimed water (and the) cleaning of rivers and (the development of) other water infrastructure which can be achieved.  

“Sufficient water availability can be a major attraction for new businesses such as data centres etc,” he said during his speech at the Water & Water Resources forum organised by Ensearch, yesterday.

Santiago further opined that existing companies are departing Malaysia due to inadequate water resources. 

“By making water a national security priority, we are protecting the country against the uncertainties of climate change.

“Such a decision to make water part of national security concerns is mainly because time is running out in the face of extreme weather conditions.

“Private firms have an essential role to play in prioritising water. 

“An Alliance Bank environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) study shows that water ranks second to last in corporate concerns. 

“Companies must also focus on water conservation and elevate water’s priority in ESG strategies,” he added.

“Rainwater harvesting, reclaimed water and efficient water machinery, no plastic use can all help to ensure that water is used efficiently. We need to save water in the same way we save energy.” – November 3, 2023