KUALA LUMPUR, 13 October 2026 (The Capital Post) – The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) has outlined measures to address declining river water quality in Malaysia, including a proposal to introduce real-time monitoring technology.
The measures were discussed during the second meeting of the National Special Committee on Addressing River Water Quality Deterioration (JKKAS) for 2026, held at the Parliament building in Kuala Lumpur on Monday (12 October).
The meeting was chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and PETRA Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof.
Also present were Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Dato’ Sri Abdul Rahman Mohamad and PETRA Secretary-General Dato’ Sri Mad Zaidi Mohd Karli.
The committee reviewed Malaysia’s river water quality status for 2025 and discussed strategies to strengthen water pollution control at the state level.
Other matters included access to inventories of non-point pollution sources and the establishment of wastewater discharge standards for urban and rural areas.
PETRA also proposed using the NAHRIM Water Quantity & Quality Monitoring System (NWQMS) to support real-time monitoring of river water levels and quality.
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The ministry identified rapid development, increasing industrial activities, enforcement challenges and limited public awareness as factors contributing to the deterioration of river water quality.
During the meeting, PETRA also launched the Guidelines for the Installation of Floating Solar Panels on Water Reservoirs and Lakes in Malaysia.
The guidelines are intended to support the planned and sustainable development of floating solar installations while protecting the country’s water resources.
PETRA emphasised the importance of cooperation among government agencies, industries and the public in improving water resource management and maintaining clean, safe and sustainable rivers.
According to a post on the official Facebook page of Kementerian Peralihan Tenaga dan Transformasi Air, the meeting reflected the government’s commitment to strengthening river water quality management through coordinated strategies, improved monitoring and sustainable development practices – The Capital Post
