Top 5 at 5: Johor’s Push to End Water Dependency on Singapore

Johor aims to end its reliance on Singapore for treated water by 2030 through the RM5 billion Zero Dependency Plan. However, critics question whether the timeline is feasible given the scale of construction needed. Charles Santiago, Chairman of the National Water Services Commission, joins us to discuss the challenges, benefits, and viability of Johor’s water independence plans.

Other stories we covered:

• Putin Open to Ceasefire—But on His Terms: Putin has signaled openness to a US-backed ceasefire in Ukraine but insists on restrictions on Ukraine’s military activity and foreign aid. Zelenskyy has dismissed this as a stalling tactic, while the US and EU remain cautious about the lack of transparency in ongoing negotiations. Meanwhile, Trump has called Putin’s stance “promising but incomplete.” We speak to Benjamin Barton on what this means for the war and Ukraine’s position.
• MP Proposes Island Shelter for Stray Dogs: Langkawi MP Suhaimi Abdullah has suggested turning a nearby island into a shelter for stray dogs after a recent attack on a young boy. While some, like the Global Human Rights Federation, support the idea, animal welfare groups argue that relocation isn’t a sustainable solution and call for better funding for shelters. We speak to SPCA Selangor’s Kelvin Cheah on the feasibility of this plan and alternative solutions for managing strays.
• Car Hijacked with Sleeping Child Inside: A man stole a car in Setia Alam with a six-year-old girl asleep inside, abandoning it 45 minutes later when she woke up crying. A similar case in 2017 saw a woman’s car hijacked in Johor while she retrieved an umbrella, with her children still inside. We speak to James Nayagam on public safety in Malaysia and safeguarding children from such threats.
• Travel Ban for PTPTN Defaulters: The government is considering reinstating a travel ban as PTPTN loan arrears hit RM11 billion. While supporters argue it could boost repayments, critics say it burdens struggling graduates and contradicts past election promises. We break down both sides of the debate.

Image Credit: Shutterstock

Presenter: Lee Chwi Lynn, Dashran Yohan

Producer: Alia Zefri, Sudais Ferhard, Sneha Harikannan, Tee Shiao Eek

Recent episodes