KUALA LUMPUR, Aug. 1 -- The Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, has called for the state to regain control of its water supply, saying recurring disruptions highlight the need for local ownership of a key state asset.

Responding to mounting public frustration over prolonged water cuts in Pontian and other areas, Tunku Ismail said the state must take charge of its water resources rather than leave them under the management of a company appointed by the federal government.

"I will monitor and try to resolve this quickly. It is important that we safeguard Johor's water, a state asset, and not leave it under a company appointed by the federal government," he said in a post on his official X account last night.

"Pray that the state's fin...