Water: Other countries – losses, Singapore – profits?

With the ongoing debate and discussion on the increase in water prices, and arguably almost daily statements to justify the increase, as well as several revelations in social media, about the PUB’s past costs, revenues, profits, etc – I was curious as to whether other neighbouring countries were spending money on water or making profits like arguably and apparently, in Singapore.

So, I googled “water budget Malaysia” and “water budget Hong Kong”.

Here’s what I found:

Malaysia Budget 2017 – water

Malaysia Budget 2017: “To increase the supply of clean water with an allocation of RM732 million, targeting 5,200 houses, including the upgrading of FELDA water supply system. A water supply fund is to be established immediately with an allocation of RM500 million to address water supply issues throughout the nation. To improve capacity and ensure water supply, government will allocate grants totalling RM156 million and loans amounting to RM509 million.”

Hong Kong Budget – water

Hong Kong: “Water Supplies Department revenue has been unable to cover operating costs since 1998, with water charges bringing a little over HK$2 billion in 2013. This compares to the more than HK$8 billion price tag to import, treat and pipe fresh water to the city’s residents and businesses.”

Other countries spend, whereas we make profits?

So, does it mean that whilst other countries spend money on providing water for its people – we may have been making money instead over the last 53 years or so?

Leong Sze Hian

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Water: Other countries – losses, Singapore – profits?