PUTRAJAYA, August 1 — The federal government and the Selangor state government today signed the ‘Heads Of Agreement’ on restructuring the water supply industry and paved the way for a long term solution to the water issue in Selangor.

Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili represented the federal government while Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim signed on behalf of Selangor.

Also present were Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Hasan Malek as well as Energy, Green Technology and Water Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid.

Ongkili said the agreement today was an extension of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by both sides on Feb 26 to build the Langat 2 Water Treatment Plant (LRAL2) and its distribution system.

“Most of the MoU contents have been detailed under the agreement today and several key matters have already been implemented,” he said.

He said for the restructuring, taking over of concession companies had been started and the Selangor government through Darul Ehsan Berhad had offered to take over four concessionaires namely ABASS, SYABAS, Puncak Niaga Sdn Bhd and SPLASH. 

“So far only the takeover of SPLASH has not been finalised,” he said and congratulated the Menteri Besar for being open, moderate and cooperative in the issue. 

He added the cooperation of both parties proved the federal government and state government put the interest of the people above their political differences.  

Meanwhile, Khalid thanked the federal government and the ministry for facilitating the negotiation of water restructuring in the state. — Bernama