PKNPk, Gamuda in pact to address water shortage in northern Perak

Kuala Lumpur: Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Perak (PKNPk) and Gamuda Bhd will develop infrastructure addressing critical water shortage in northern Perak.

The project will facilitate raw water transfer from Sungai Perak to Bukit Merah and develop the requisite infrastructure for treated water distribution, ensuring long-term water sustainability for the region.

PKNPk, as the state’s key economic agency, is driving the initiative to boost economic growth and efficiency.

Both parties will form a joint venture later.

They will manage design, engineering, utilities, risk mitigation and workforce training, delivering significant socio-economic benefits.

Gamuda Engineering executive director Faris Mohd Yusof said the company brings expertise in water treatment plants, reticulation and tunnels, backed by extensive experience in projects like the Skim Bekalan Air Fasa 3 Sungai Selangor and Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel.

“We have consistently prioritised local talent and supply chain development as reflected in our construction teams and in-house deployment of digital innovations such as our award-winning Autonomous Tunnel Boring Machine, BIM-Augmented Reality and other digital construction technologies.

“Supporting the development of the local workforce and communities will remain our focus, especially in our home state of Perak,” he said.

PKNPk chief executive Datuk Redza Rafiq Abdul Razak said the agency is committed to resolve the issues and ensure water security for Perak’s residents by 2029.

With a steadily growing population and expanding economy, he said the water project is crucial for meeting the escalating domestic and industrial demand for clean water.

The project will bolster the development of the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park and enhance agricultural irrigation in the district.

“This initiative represents a vital stride towards sustainable development and perfectly aligns with the 12th Flagship of the Perak Sejahtera 2030 programme, specifically under Flagship 12: Water Resources and Renewable Energy.”