SIBU: The project to upgrade the Salim Water Treatment Plant from a capacity of 150 million litres per day (MLD) to 300 MLD is ahead of schedule by about 6.45 per cent, said Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi.
According to the Utility and Telecommunication Minister, current progress stands at 17.96 per cent, compared to the initial target of 11.51 per cent.
“This project will have a capacity of 300 MLD upon completion and is expected to provide a 30 per cent reserve margin for the Sibu Water Treatment Plant.
“It is projected to supply clean water to around 350,000 residents in Sibu town and the surrounding areas.
“I hope the project continues to run smoothly and is completed as scheduled,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters during a visit to the raw water intake construction site at Jalan Stabau here today.
The project began in May last year and is funded by a grant of nearly RM300 million from the Sarawak government.
Julaihi emphasised that the project is part of the Sarawak government’s long-term efforts to provide clean treated water to residents throughout the state.
“In fact, this is part of the water master plan currently being implemented by the Sarawak government, as well as part of the grid system we are developing.
“This means that once completed, the entire grid system will be connected across Sarawak, ensuring water supply for all,” he said.
Julaihi noted that while the current water supply capacity here is 195 MLD, it remains insufficient as demand has reached 200 MLD.
“The existing treatment plant has to work overtime. We hope that once this upgrading project is completed, it will become history.
“All the problems we are facing now will be resolved,” he said.
He also highlighted that RM1.1 billion has been approved for pipe replacement and upgrading works across the state over five years, covering 2,740 kilometres, including Sibu.
“For the Sibu Division alone, RM170 million has been allocated for these works, jointly undertaken by the Sibu Water Board and the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB).
“This includes surrounding areas such as Kanowit and Selangau,” he added.
Julaihi urged residents to be patient as the state implements its long-term plan to ensure a sustainable and reliable water supply.
“This is the long-term solution. It is not an overnight fix.
“It requires long-term planning, which is why we have developed a clean water supply master plan for Sarawak and the state’s water grid system, and we are currently implementing it,” he stressed.
