GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) has received about 300 complaints from consumers over the high water charges following the implementation of the new tariff.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the complaints started coming in at the end of February, when consumers started receiving their water bill although the new tariff took effect on Feb 1.
Penang implements the bi-monthly billing system.
"PBAPP has received about 300 complaints on high charges.
"We will continue to explain to the people, who may be unsure of the new calculation," he told newsmen here this afternoon.
Social media users in Penang have been complaining about soaring water charges, with many sharing the increases in their water bills.
Some shared that their bills have risen by more than RM100, while others said their water bills, which used to be around RM30, have increased to around RM100.
Earlier today, PBAPP chief executive officer K. Pathmanathan said despite higher charges, the average domestic water rate in Penang remained the second lowest in the country.
Chow said the state authorities had always emphasised on saving and using water prudently.
"Avoid wastage and that will reduce the high bill charges.
"But what is more important is the need to protect this limited resource," he added.
Explaining further, Chow said although people disliked comparisons, the fact remained that they were still paying a nominal amount to ensure clean, safe and ample supply of water.
"If we were to factor in the number of people in a house with the bill charges, it is not a burden we cannot bear.
"On an average, we may only be paying a few cents daily, even with the new tariff."