Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof calls for efficient electricity and water use during Aidilfitri, as festive demand is expected to surge significantly.

PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has urged the public to use electricity and water prudently during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri season.

He said residential electricity demand is typically estimated to rise by 20% to 40% during the festive period compared to normal usage.

“Simple electricity-saving measures include turning off lights and electrical appliances when not in use, avoiding standby mode, setting air-conditioner temperatures between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, and using appliances with four- or five-star energy efficiency ratings,” he said in a statement.

For water, an increase of 30% to 35% is expected in most popular balik kampung destination states.

Fadillah, who is also Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, added that water supply operators are on alert to ensure demand is met efficiently.

“The National Water Services Commission (SPAN) also ensures operators are prepared with contingency plans in case of any unexpected incidents during the festive season,” he said.

The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), through SPAN, targets a maximum daily per capita water usage of 160 litres.

He listed recommended water-saving measures, including fixing pipe leaks and using rainwater for non-essential activities like garden cleaning.

Other tips include washing only full loads of laundry and ensuring taps are tightly closed after use.

Reusing uncontaminated water, such as ablution (wuduk) water, can also help conserve resources.

Selecting products with two- or three-star water-efficiency labels can save up to an average of 50% on monthly bills, he added.

On electrical safety, PETRA reminded the public to ensure home wiring is safe and to test Residual Current Devices (RCDs) monthly.

“If the RCD functions properly, it will trip and cut the electricity supply immediately. If it does not function and needs replacement, please engage an electrical contractor registered with the Energy Commission,” he said.

Other safety measures include avoiding overloaded sockets and using appliances with proper safety labels.

The public is also advised to keep hands dry when using electrical equipment and avoid using mobile phones while they are charging.

Fadillah said that by practising efficient energy and water usage, the public can celebrate more safely.

This also supports the national agenda to ensure sustainable and resilient energy and water resources for future development needs.

 The Sun Malaysia