Many customers may not see IWK's daily operations, yet they greatly benefit from the essential services it provides.
PAYING bills on time is a fundamental responsibility for all consumers. This applies for all kinds of services, especially for utilities like water, internet, electricity and sewerage. When bills are paid promptly, it helps companies maintain smooth service operations and enhance their overall efficiency. When customers fulfil their financial obligations, it also allows service providers to perform their jobs effectively.
As responsible customers, it is important to recognise that the quality of service received is directly linked to timely bill payments. Ensuring bills are paid on time allows service providers to invest in better equipment, facilities and staff, which leads to better service. Regular maintenance and upgrades can only happen if the service provider has enough funds, which comes from customers' payments of their bills.
Why is sewage service necessary?
During the Paris Olympics triathlon swimming event recently, the world was stunned to learn about the quality of the Seine River which was reported as highly polluted with E.coli bacteria. Despite clean-up efforts, the concerns of the water quality remained.
This highlights the critical importance of treating wastewater to protect public health and the environment, reinforcing the essential role of companies like the national sewerage company, Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) Sdn Bhd in maintaining modern and efficient sewerage systems.
Since taking over sewerage services from local authorities in 1994, IWK has been ensuring that wastewater is treated efficiently before being discharged into the rivers. A modern and efficient sewerage system is vital for the country so as to preserve the country’s water resources, protect public health and provide a cleaner and safer environment.
The services provided by IWK can be related to the saying, “Out of sight, out of mind.” Many customers rarely see the daily operations but continue to benefit greatly from them. Every day, everyone from Malaysia is able to flush a toilet or wash the dishes and the dirty dish water flows through and gets treated shows the essential service being provided.
IWK operates 8,874 sewage treatment plants (STPs) and network pump stations and maintains over 22,000km networks of sewerage pipelines serving 29 million Connected Population Equivalent (PE). It’s important for customers to pay their IWK bills to keep these operations going and ensure good service continues.
IWK personnel conducting routine checks on major equipment at the Sewerage Treatment Plant.
Understand sewerage system and services
Malaysia has two primary types of sewerage systems, namely the connected sewerage system and traditional sewerage systems, which include individual septic tanks (IST) or communal septic tanks (CST). The connected sewerage system, the most prevalent, involves the transport of sewage through a network of sewer pipelines to treatment plants before its safe discharge into waterways. On the flip side, septic tanks operate as a non-connected, self-contained sewerage system used by properties to temporarily store sewage and sludge.
An IWK personnel clearing blockages using manual rodding equipment at a public manhole.
The meticulous care of this intricate network falls under the jurisdiction of IWK. Working in the sewerage industry is not for the faint-hearted; it is often dirty, dangerous, and difficult—commonly referred to as 3D work. Working with hazardous materials, equipment and in confined spaces presents significant risks. Navigating complex sewerage systems and intricate machinery further increases the chances of injury and fatal accidents. In essence, IWK's frontline workers face elevated occupational hazards due to the nature of their work.
Therefore, it’s imperative for IWK to ensure that customers are responsible for paying their bills on time and settling any outstanding amounts. However, customers facing financial difficulties can negotiate their outstanding bills with IWK, which may allow instalment payments to help manage their debt more easily.
Above all that, IWK also offers rebate assistance and eKasih programme for those who are less fortunate. The rebate programme helps lower the cost of sewerage service bills for domestic customers, particularly the lower-income community. From October 2022 to December 2023, IWK provided RM183, 000 in rebates to customers.
IWK’s utmost priority is to ensure our customers receive the highest quality of services. The company deeply appreciates customers who always pay their bills on time, as it enables IWK to maintain and improve its operations. IWK will continue to ensure the nation's well-being by providing reliable and efficient sewerage services.
Despite the challenges, IWK’s collection rate for 2023 is above 90%, showing that most customers understand the importance of timely payments and appreciate the critical services provided by IWK. The company is thankful for this support and remains committed to delivering high-quality sewerage services.
As IWK moves forward, the company’s partnership with the public is crucial. By understanding the shared responsibility in maintaining a clean and sustainable environment, IWK can collectively contribute to the well-being of its ecosystems and the health of communities.
How to pay your bill with e-Bill and enjoy RM2 rebate
Follow these three simple steps to pay your bill with e-Bill and enjoy an RM2 rebate.
Scan the QR code on your bill
Fill in your details
Verify your email and phone number
By registering for e-Bill, not only is the payment process simplified but also contributes to environmental preservation.
For more information, visit its website at www.iwk.com.my.
