Assessment of Water Security for a Sustainable Environment: An Indicator-Based Approach Applied in Penang, Malaysia

When risks to water security increase it is necessary to enhance the management response. Water and climate change are closely related as water form a channel through which the effect of climate change can be experienced. This study has applied an indicator-based approach to establish a framework for assessing water security performance in Penang, Malaysia. The framework is targeted at supporting current contributions in attaining sustainable water security in the state. Analysis of the region’s water security index was conducted and compared with international standards. The dimensions and indicators applied are based on the UN-water definition of water security, while the variables applied in the assessment were selected based on appropriate findings from the literature. A water security index ranging from a scale of 1–5 was obtained. The outcome of the assessment showed an overall good condition of water security in Penang with the potential to handle future changes for a sustainable and resilient environment. However, the findings have shown that there is room for improvement in water-related disasters, ecosystems preservation, and water governance to enhance the condition of water security in the state.