In response to an increase in occurrences of water theft and unauthorised water supply connections, the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) has proposed amendments to the Water Services Industry Act 2006 that might result in increased fines and jail terms for offenders.
According to today's New Sunday Times, the commission is expected to receive approval from the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and the Attorney-General's Chambers soon.
Photo via The Star
Due to an increase in cases of water theft or unauthorised water supply connections, SPAN has proposed raising the sanctions under Section 123 of the Act.
SPAN CEO Datuk Ahmad Faizal Abdul Rahman was cited as saying, "The idea is to enhance the maximum fine of RM100,000 to RM1 million and the maximum sentence of one year to 10 years."
Water theft is regulated under Section 123 of the Water Services Industry Act, which carries a maximum fine of RM100,000 or a maximum sentence of one year in prison, or both, if found guilty.
The country has experienced 229 cases of water theft last year, the most in the previous five years. Only 119 and 177 cases, respectively, were reported in 2021 and 2020.
