THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDG) FRAMEWORK IN TRANSBOUNDARY WATER MANAGEMENT IN MALAYSIA: INSIGHTS FROM THE SUNGAI MUDA CONFLICT BETWEEN KEDAH AND PENANG WITH GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES
List of Authors
  • MOHD FIRDAUS ABDULLAH

Keyword
  • Sustainable development goals, Malaysia, riparian rights, water management, Kedah, Penang.

Abstract
  • In examining the transboundary water dispute between Kedah and Penang, this study frames the issue within the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 agenda on clean water and sanitation, highlighting how contestations over the Muda River reveal deeper tensions in Malaysia’s riparian governance and the politics of sustainable development. Conflict arises when Kedah, on the upstream side, has borne the conservation costs for the Ulu Muda catchment area and demands payment from Penang, which depends on water supply from Sungai Muda for domestic and industrial needs. Penang, as the state that owns the river’s downstream section, refused to pay based on its riparian rights, which it interprets as the right to use the water without paying any compensation. Even though the riparian right is recognised by international law, its implementation under Malaysian law remains elusive, which has caused tension between the two states. Hence, the main objective of this study is to evaluate how SDG 6 principles can be applied to support fair and sustainable local water management. Using a qualitative approach, the research involves document analysis to identify the main themes behind distributive justice, ecosystem, and legal issues that influence water distribution. Findings indicate that there is no clear legal framework regarding riparian rights, and the division of responsibilities for the river’s upstream and downstream territories is the main contributing factor to the conflict. As a solution, this study suggests the establishment of a transboundary water agreement based on the SDG 6 principles, encompassing monetary compensation for the upstream state as well as a collaborative effort to conserve the catchment area. These would ensure sustainable and just water management for both states. Lastly, these findings support sustainable development through inclusive and responsive water management and provide guidelines for other countries facing transboundary water issues.

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