Cut shower time and limit car washing, Malaysians urged

 

Former National Water Services Commission chairman Charles Santiago says car washing is a major contributor to water wastage, noting that some people wash their vehicles daily - NSTP FILE PIC, FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians have been urged to cut down on daily water usage, including reducing shower times and limiting car washing, as prolonged hot weather continues to strain key water sources such as Sungai Muda.

Former National Water Services Commission chairman Charles Santiago said common household habits, often overlooked, were contributing to significant water wastage at a time when supply levels were tightening.

He told Malay Mail that the public should halve their shower duration and be more mindful of water use in activities such as car washing and gardening.

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"Go easy on car washing, gardening, and cut your shower time by 50 per cent," he said.

Santiago said car washing is a major contributor to water wastage, noting that some people wash their vehicles daily.

"If you take one million cars and multiply that by about 25 litres per wash, you are already looking at about 25 million litres of water a week — and that is just for one wash," he said, adding that Malaysians should be more sensitive and reduce the frequency of washing their vehicles.

He also advised moderation in gardening practices, urging the public to water only plant roots instead of using excessive amounts of water to maintain foliage appearance.

Santiago said Malaysia's high water consumption was reflected in national data, with an average of 201 litres used per person daily.

This exceeds the United Nations' recommended level of 165 litres, as well as usage in neighbouring countries such as Singapore (140 litres) and Thailand (90 litres).

Despite the call for conservation, he stressed that people should continue to drink sufficient water to remain hydrated amid the ongoing heatwave.

"Reduce usage, but don't dehydrate. Just avoid excessive use," he said.

Meanwhile, the Malaysian Meteorological Department said the current hot and dry conditions are expected to continue until the Southwest Monsoon begins in June, with below-average rainfall forecast in the coming months.

It said the Caution Level refers to daily maximum temperatures between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days. - NST