PADAWAN: The issue of clean water supply in rural areas must be addressed urgently and effectively, given the critical need for reliable and quality water access among rural communities.

Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, said the Sarawak Government has allocated RM4 billion under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), with an additional RM600 million earmarked for the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), aimed at strengthening the state’s water supply system.

“The water supply issue cannot be resolved overnight, especially considering Sarawak’s vast and challenging geographical landscape,” he said during the groundbreaking ceremony of the “Acute System” water project along Jalan Bengoh Danu on Wednesday.

Dato Sri Julaihi also shared updates on the progress of the Serian water supply project, which includes the construction of an additional mini water treatment plant in Balai Ringin and the installation of large-scale 900mm pipelines.

He explained that the project has encountered technical difficulties, particularly in areas with rocky terrain requiring 'jacking' methods for pipe installation. Nevertheless, it has recorded encouraging progress, with current supply capacity already exceeding demand.

In a broader move, he announced that the state government is planning to develop the Sarawak Water Supply Grid System, which aims to interconnect major water treatment plants across the state.

“This initiative is crucial to ensure uninterrupted supply, even in the event of disruptions or sudden increases in demand in any particular area,” he said.

Dato Sri Julaihi further urged elected representatives, community leaders, engineers, contractors, and local residents to cooperate fully to ensure projects are completed smoothly and on schedule.

Among those present at the ceremony were Deputy Minister for Transport and Mambong Assemblyman, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Puncak Borneo Member of Parliament, Datuk Willie Mongin, Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication, Datu Jafri Lias and Director of the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), Ir. Ts. Awg. Mohammad Fadilah Awg Redzuan. -UKASnews