SADONG JAYA: A RM150 million rural electricity grid upgrade project incorporating the Medium Voltage Covered Conductor (MVCC) system is expected to be completed by December 2028, strengthening power supply reliability across five districts in Sarawak.
Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said the Sarawak government remains committed to expanding the MVCC system throughout the state to ensure a more stable and reliable electricity supply for consumers.
He said the upgrade is designed to minimise power disruptions caused by external factors such as tree branches and wildlife coming into contact with power lines.
“Unlike conventional cables, the MVCC system uses fully insulated and covered conductors.
“As such, it is less susceptible to external disturbances such as birds perching on the lines or tree branches making contact, which have previously been among the main causes of power outages,” he said during a working visit to the project site here before proceeding to Kampung Sungai Lumut in Sebuyau yesterday (July 20).
Julaihi said the high-impact project involves the construction of a 124-kilometre electricity transmission line spanning the districts of Asajaya, Sadong Jaya, Simunjan and Sebuyau, extending to Gedong.
He said the alignment comprises a 63km stretch from Asajaya to Sebuyau, while another 23km section will run from Sadong Jaya sub-district to Simunjan before continuing to Gedong.
To support the upgraded network, about 1,600 utility poles are being installed in stages by appointed contractor Showfield Sdn Bhd under the supervision of Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) through Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO).
Apart from the overhead transmission lines, the project also includes the installation of high-quality submarine cables crossing the river between Sebuyau and Asajaya, extending towards the Batang Sadong Bridge.
“To ensure long-term safety and durability, the riverbed cables are being buried at a depth of 1.5 metres, or about five feet below the riverbed, to protect the utility infrastructure,” he said.
He also reminded maritime logistics operators and vessel owners not to anchor within the prohibited zones along the cable route to prevent damage to the utility assets.
