Don Wee on Public Utilities (Amendment) Bill

Water is a critical resource for Singapore and any change or threat to water supply can have significant implications for Singapore's water security and independence, said MP Don Wee. Speaking in Parliament on Thursday (Aug 3), he sought clarifications on several aspects of the Bill. He asked for confirmation that the waterborne tax and water conservation tax will not impact costs for small- and medium-sized enterprises and consumers. He also raised concerns that the new water efficiency requirements could add to costs for multinational corporations, which will in turn impact Singapore’s competitiveness in attracting companies. He wanted to know how the Government is supporting them. He also hopes PUB will take a balanced approach with companies which are genuinely unable to meet the water efficiency requirements. Mr Wee urged PUB to bear in mind the challenges faced by companies, by providing avenues such as waivers or exemptions if they can show that they have valid reasons for not meeting the requirements. PUB should assess each case on its merit and decide whether to grant leniency based on the company's circumstances, he said.