SIBU: An underground 11kV cable near Lorong Salim here was damaged at 2:02 pm last December 2 during excavation works by a third-party contractor, causing power outages affecting about 2,000 residents.
Syarikat SESCO Bhd’s (SESCO) Regional Manager for the Central Region, Jabu Ngumbang, said that the affected areas included neighbourhoods around Jalan Salim, Jalan Helang, Bukit Penyau and Kiew Nang, as well as Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (SJK) Sung Sang and Kiew Nang Primary School.
“Excavation work near electrical assets must be carried out carefully and in line with established safety procedures.
“Repeated non-compliance jeopardises the network, public safety and surrounding communities,” he said.
SESCO responded immediately by deploying three mobile generator units to partially restore supply while repair works were underway.
Full power was restored at 9:47 pm on the same day, although adverse weather conditions delayed the repairs.
This marks the third underground cable damage incident in the same area within recent weeks, following similar occurrences on November 13 and 29.
The repeated incidents have raised concerns over contractors’ adherence to safety protocols.
In response to previous incidents, Sarawak Energy issued stop-work orders, warning letters and cost-recovery claims.
The utility will continue to engage with relevant agencies and contractors to enforce safe working practices and prevent further damage to critical electrical infrastructure.
Patrols in the area will be stepped up, and any contractor operating unsafely will be required to halt work immediately.
Contractors are reminded to ‘Call Before You Dig’ and coordinate with Sarawak Energy to identify cable routes and plan safe works.
Damage to electrical assets can result in repair cost recovery, financial penalties or legal action.
Members of the public may report power outages or suspicious activity near electrical facilities via the Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111, email customercare@sarawakenergy.com, the SEB Cares mobile app or web portal, or the virtual agent CARINA.
