NEED FOR COMPREHENSIVE POLICY ON WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT - MINISTER

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 30 (Bernama) -- Natural Resources and Environment Minister
Douglas Uggah Embas said there is urgent need for a comprehensive
policy on water resources management.

"The lack of a clear and integrated policy on the management of water
resources can lead to competition and conflict.

"It will adversely affect stability of water resources and have implication
on development and national security," he said at Workshop 3 of the "Review of
National Water Resources Study (2000-2050) and Formulation of Water Resources
Policy here Thursday.

Uggah said the management of water resources involves departments and
agencies that operate sectorally based on their roles, responsibilities and laws
leading to fragmentation in planning and development.

Other than supply and demand, the review also covers wider scope including
the formulation of draft policies, laws and framework of institutions
responsible for water resources management.

"We don't want to be blamed by our descendants for poor management of water
resources," said Uggah.

Earlier studies on water resources by Japan International Cooperation Agency
the Economic Planning Unit were focused on supply and demand.

The review costing RM6.8mil (US$2.2 million) (US$1=RM3.08) by Ranhill
Consulting Services Sdn Bhd is expected to be completed next month.

-- BERNAMA



Delete & Prev | Delete & Next