The SPAH rainwater harvesting system reduces treated water demand, acts as a backup supply, and can cut urban flood risk by up to 50%
KUALA LUMPUR: The national Rainwater Harvesting System (SPAH) initiative supports sustainable water management and acts as a backup during supply disruptions.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the system also reduces demand for treated water and uses less energy than conventional sources.
Fadillah, who is Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, said the ministry is mainstreaming SPAH use across communities and the public and private sectors.
He was responding to a question in the Dewan Negara about strategic plans to utilise rainwater as a supply source during dry seasons.
He cited the NAHRIM Tank Software 2.0, which provides online simulations to determine optimal tank sizes and assess water savings.
A 2017 master plan study also identified the potential for alternative water sources in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.
An amendment to the Uniform Building By-Laws in 2011 mandated SPAH in buildings, a measure adopted by 11 Peninsular Malaysian states.
Sixteen physical SPAH projects have been implemented at various premises since 2001, serving over 1,000 consumers.
NAHRIM research shows the system can reduce urban flash flood risk and save up to 30% of treated water usage.
A study in Taman Wangsa Melawati showed it can reduce peak rainwater discharge by 10% to 20%.
Research in the Sungai Damansara Basin found widespread SPAH adoption could lower flooding extent by 35% to 50%.
The ministry will continue evaluating the initiative’s effectiveness through pilot project impact studies.
On providing financial incentives for household installation, Fadillah said the proposal would be discussed with the Ministry of Finance.
He stressed that new SPAH projects involve storage tanks for non-potable uses like watering plants.
“Rainwater catchment prevents runoff, which helps reduce flooding and lowers the overall risk, particularly in urban areas,” he concluded. – Bernama
