THE Sarawak government had set aside RM409 million under the 2026 Budget to implement various water supply projects.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak achieved an overall water supply coverage of 86 per cent, with full access in urban areas and 70 per cent in rural regions.
“With this achievement, our focus now shifts to expanding water supply coverage to rural areas. Guided by the Sarawak Water Supply Master Plan, initiatives like the Water Supply Grid and SAWAS are critical to reach even the most remote households, especially where grid extension is not feasible,” he said.
He said this during the third session of fourth term of the 19th State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting.
“The projects are the Engkilili Regional Water Treatment Plant, Sri Aman Upgrading of Treatment Plant Salim, Sibu; Serian Regional Water Supply Phase II; Upgrading of Treatment Plant No.4 Batu Kitang; Mukah Water Treatment Plant; Pipeline for Darul Hana programme; and Lundu/Sematan Regional Water Supply, Kuching.
Abang Johari said RM402 million will be provided under Alternative Funding to implement the Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme for Stressed Areas and Upgrading and Replacement of Water Pipelines Programme.
He added that introduced in January 2020, the administration subsidises the first RM5 of the monthly domestic water bill to reduce the financial burden of the rakyat.
“The programme will continue in 2026, with approximately RM21 million to be borne by the Sarawak government to fund the subsidy,” he said.
