KUALA LUMPUR, April 20 — The Selangor government has made preparations to safeguard the state’s water supply during this weekend’s Aidilfitri celebrations.

The state executive councillor in charge of tourism and environment Hee Loy Sian today announced a round-the-clock operation to monitor rivers and water treatment plants.

"The state government through Selangor Water Management Board (LUAS) and other obligated agencies like the Environmental Department, local authorities and the Land and District Office will be prepared during Aidilfitri to circumvent any problematic water supply incidents,” Hee said in a statement.

He urged industries and businesses to be "mindful” about how they manage and dispose of waste as Muslims in the state await the announcement of whether Aidilfitri will fall tomorrow or on Saturday, which depends on the sighting of the new moon.

"The Selangor government urges all including industry players, premises owners and the general public to not take lightly and be more mindful about their waste management.

"Waste management is especially important amid preparations for the festivity holidays so as not to affect water sources and disrupt supplies to users throughout Aidilfitri,” he said.

Frequent water supply disruptions in Selangor over the last few years, often caused by illegal waste dumping, have triggered strong public protests that pundits believe could affect support for the Pakatan Harapan-led administration that is bidding to thwart a galvanised Opposition in a crucial state election that could take place June or July this year.

Despite increased efforts to protect its rivers, including pushing for amendments to laws that would raise fines imposed on polluters, illegal waste dumping continues to happen.

In 2020, water supply disruptions caused by pollution of the Sungai Selangor river reportedly affected over 1.2 million households and businesses, resulting in losses estimated at RM1.5 billion.

That same year, the Selangor government reportedly issued fines totalling RM8.4 million to 132 individuals and companies for various offences related to river pollution.