KUCHING: The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) is ready to take over the implementation of several water and electricity supply projects that are currently under the supervision of other agencies.

Its Minister, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, stressed that the handover of the projects must be accompanied by adequate financial allocation.

He explained that the matter was discussed with his former Deputy, Datuk Dr. Abdul Rahman Junaidi who is now the Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Project Coordination for the Regional Development Agency, Kuching North City Hall and Islamic Affairs).

"I have discussed with Datuk Dr. Abdul Rahman to consider handing over the implementation to Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), because when this project is completed, it will be handed over to us," he said.

He said this while speaking at the MUT Appreciation Ceremony on Wednesday.

Dato Sri Julaihi further stressed that the handover should not be done without the set allocation.

"If it is handed over, don't just hand over the project. Hand over the allocation as well, otherwise we will not have enough funds to complete the project," he said.

He noted that the submission of the project along with the funds is important to ensure the continuity of implementation and that its benefits can be channeled immediately to the people, especially in rural areas that still require a stable water and electricity supply.

“I believe that my colleagues at JBALB and other water supply agencies will be happy to continue the implementation of this project, as long as all requirements, including sufficient funds are met,” he said.

He added that MUT’s strength lies in the close cooperation between all agencies and stakeholders in ensuring that Sarawak’s utility development agenda can be implemented effectively.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Utility (Sarawak Energy Berhad and PETROS), Dato Ibrahim Baki, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for the Regional Development Agency, Kuching North City Hall, and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr. Abdul Rahman Junaidi, JBALB Director, Awang Mohammad Fadillah Awang Redzuan and other guests. -UKASnews