GEORGE TOWN: Domestic consumers in Penang will not be charged for the first 10,000 litres of water each month for the next six months.

Large households with combined monthly income below RM5,000 would also receive a RM20 rebate under the Family Friendly Rebate scheme.

Penang infrastructure and transport committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the exemption and rebate will be given from July to December.

“The state has taken note of complaints regarding the new domestic water tariff rates following re-adjustment by the National Water Services Commission (SPAN), in effect since February.

“Although Penang still enjoys the second lowest tariffs in the country, many have complained (about) the drastic increase from the previous tariff which has not been adjusted for 31 years for the first band (consumption of 20 cubic metres) and nine years for other bands.

“Therefore, the state has instructed the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) to (issue the) rebate,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (June 5).

“The RM20 Family Friendly Rebate scheme for large households (eight people and above) would be expanded to those with an income of RM5,000 and below, an increase from RM2,250 previously,” he said.

With these measures, Zairil said all domestic water users will enjoy a rebate of RM6.20 on each bill.