Selangor MB hesitant to sue federal government for water woes

THE impasse on the restructuring of water services industry in Selangor seems to continue despite the state government’s ardent pursuit to settle the matter. Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim expressed hesitation in taking the federal government to court for failing to adhere to the Water Services Industry Act (WSIA) 2006. Asked if the state government was going to seek legal recourse, he said: “We will cross the bridge when we get there.” “We prefer international arbitration,” Abdul Khalid told reporters after closing the Selangor Water Forum 2012 yesterday. He said such a decision must be reached after consultating with legal advisors and the state exco. Last month, Abdul Khalid reportedly said the state government would consider filing a judicial review against Green Technology, Energy and Water Minister Datuk Seri Peter Chin Fah Kui for failing to use is ministerial powers to take over water industry assets from the state government as stipulated by the WSIA. Further, the MB said yesterday three companies — Wessex Water, Halcrow Group and Suez — have been enlisted to audit the operations of Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Sdn Bhd (Syabas). Meanwhile, Abdul Khalid said the state government is exploring the option of extracting groundwater as an alternative water source if all others fail. He said the state government was discussing with several companies on the feasibility of tapping underground water. “We are not going to insensibly and solely rely on underground water because it can only provide up to 20 per cent of raw water supply. “But we want to explain to the public about the initiative, about the benefits of using underground water and will hold a forum soon.” Source: The Malays Mail Jarumemas: Because if he dares, the people will not support him. What about the rubbish problem in the state?