THE Sarawak government has approved RM575 million to upgrade electricity infrastructure in Samarahan, Betong, Lawas, Sungai Asap, Lubok Antu and Lundu.
Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said the upgrades will be carried out by Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and are aimed at improving the reliability of power supply, particularly in rural areas.
“To ensure a more reliable power supply, especially in rural areas, my ministry through Sarawak Energy Berhad is actively enhancing the system in stages,” he said when delivering his winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
Julaihi explained that the initiatives include the construction of distribution lines using Medium Voltage Covered Conductor (MVCC) technology, building double circuit monopole overhead lines, upgrading transformers, and developing new 33kV substations.
He said that among the major infrastructure projects planned under the RM575 million allocation are the construction of MVCC lines from Asajaya to Sebuyau, Simunjan and Gedong; from Engkilili to Nanga Kesit; from Saratok to Kabong; and from Serudit to Pusa, as well as from Murum to Sungai Asap.
The upgrades also include monopole lines from Serudit to Saratok and from Kampung Stenggang to Lundu. Additionally, new substations will be built at Kampung Stenggang in Kuching, Kabong/Roban in Betong, and Sundar in Lawas.
Meanwhile, he said currently a total of 244km of MVCC distribution lines have been completed throughout Sarawak.
In addition, he said a total of 233 transformers have been upgraded and 11 substations completed, while 41 others are currently under various stages of implementation.
