Doesn’t the name Teluk Bahang Dam sound impressive? It should because it is the biggest dam in George Town. This is the Bahang Bay Lake Reservoir.
Welcome to the Bahang Bay Lake Reservoir. It is also known as the Teluk Bahang Dam. We will explore its history and significance. This dam is not just a water source. It is a landmark that has shaped the region.
The Bahang Bay Lake Reservoir is vital to George Town’s water supply. Concerns about water sufficiency grew after World War II due to population growth. The George Town City Council sought new water sources. A water intake scheme was created in Teluk Bahang in 1950.
The Malayan federal government funded the scheme with a loan of $3.65 million. These intakes helped George Town withstand droughts between 1958 and 1960. In 1961, engineer Goh Heng Chong announced the need for another dam. This was during the construction of the Ayer Itam Dam. Teluk Bahang was chosen as the site. The project was delayed due to financial issues.
In 1992, the Penang state government partnered with the China International Water & Electric Corporation. They planned to build a M$155 million reservoir at Teluk Bahang. The dam would supply 100 million litres of water daily. This equalled George Town’s daily water use during dry periods. The project included pumping stations, pipelines and a tunnel to Batu Ferringhi.
Construction began in 1996. By 1997, the cost rose to RM240 million. The Teluk Bahang Dam opened in 1999. Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi inaugurated it. The Penang Water Supply Corporation now operates it.
The Bahang Bay Lake Reservoir has a total capacity of 18.24 billion litres. Its catchment area is 0.95 square kilometers. It is the only dam in Malaysia built close to the sea. The dam supplies water to Teluk Bahang, Batu Ferringhi and Tanjong Bungah.
The Bahang Bay Lake Reservoir is more than just a dam. It is a strategic water reserve. It is also a venue for sports. The Penang International Dragon Boat Festival occurs here annually. Teams from Singapore, Hong Kong, China and Thailand participate.
The Teluk Bahang Dam proved useful during the dry seasons of 2014 and 2015. The PBAPP used its waters to avoid water rationing in Penang. The dam is an important part of Penang’s water infrastructure.
As we conclude our visit here at the Bahang Bay Lake Reservoir, consider its impact. The Bahang Bay Lake Reservoir supports daily life and hosts international events. It stands as a testament to Penang’s commitment to sustainability. It ensures a secure water supply for future generations.