KLANG, 30 May: Discussions on the Selangor water industry will begin again with the Federal Government in the nearest future with hopes that the restructuring of the service can be continued by the Selangor Government.
This is so that the acquisition process for the treatment and distribution of water in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya from four private companies will be completed to ensure that consumers receive adequate, ongoing and affordable price for water supply.
Chief Minister, Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said that the official letter regarding discussions has been sent on Monday to Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Razak and the new Minister of Energy, Green Technology and Water, Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili.
The letter is a response of the State Government to Dr Maximus’s statement last week of wanting to meet and discuss with Selangor on the water services in Selangor.
Abdul Khalid hopes that the ministry will respond immediately so that a discussion can be held in the nearest future.
“Our priority is to improve the water supply services for the people of Selangor and the Klang Valley through the restructuring of the water services as required by the Water Services Industry Act or WSIA.
“I have sent official letters to Dr Maximus Ongkili to hold discussions to finalise this restructuring process.”
He said this at a press conference after the oath swearing for the State Government Executive Council here at the Alam Shah Palace today.
The water industry restructuring process was initiated by the State Government last year in an effort to takeover the supply, treatment and distribution operations from four private companies.
The State Government has offered RM9.65 billion to acquire the four companies and so far, they have responded positively to the offer.
Last week, Dr Maximus expressed desire to meet with Abdul Khalid in a proposal to restructure the water industry in Selangor so that an amicable conclusion will be reached.
Dr Maximus said that he hopes to sit with Abdul Khalid to explore parts where the Federal Government can cooperate with the State Government.