SIBU: Works on the Rantau Panjang Acute Water Treatment Plant are progressing steadily and will supply up to five million litres of water daily upon completion, addressing long-standing supply issues in the area.
The project, which began in early March this year, is currently about 15 per cent complete and is expected to be finished within eight to nine months.
Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng Jin Ek conducted a site visit to Rantau Panjang on Friday afternoon to inspect progress on the newly constructed plant, accompanied by representatives from the Sibu Shipyard Association (SSA), Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd (Central Region), and the Sibu Division of the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB).
“As the implementing agency, JBALB arranged for the contractor’s engineer to brief us on the construction progress and technical aspects of the project.
“During last year’s State Legislative Assembly sitting, I have called on the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication to approve and expedite the construction of an Acute Water Treatment Plant in Rantau Panjang.
“In fact, Sibu shipyards at Rantau Panjang industry zone have long faced persistent low water pressure and water supply disruptions, severely affecting their operations and productivity,” he said in a press statement on Saturday (April 11).
Chieng said the SSA approached him last year to seek assistance, prompting him to raise the matter in the State Assembly and urge swift government action.
He added that the project would serve as a key solution to long-standing water supply problems affecting both the industrial area and nearby residential communities in Rantau Panjang.
Upon completion, the plant is expected to supply between three and five million litres of water daily, significantly improving reliability, enhancing living conditions, and supporting the continued growth of the shipbuilding industry.
“I would like to express my appreciation to the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication and Minister, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi for their prompt response. This reflects strong commitment and efficiency in delivering essential infrastructure by Sarawak Government,” Chieng added.
Also present were SSA chairman Ngieng Hock Sii and JBALB Sibu Division water engineer Herda Haziqah Sekaria.
