BY JACINTHA JOLENE & ALEXANDRA LORNA
SARIKEI: The Bayong Water Treatment Plant is set to increase its supply capacity to 130 million litres per day (MLD), says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
With the increase in the water supply, Abang Johari said there is a possibility for the plant to be expanded.
“There is room for expansion at this plant, depending on the volume of water drawn from the Gerugu Dam,” he told a press conference after inspecting the Bayong Water Treatment Plant today (May 14).
He explained that the dam serves as a major water catchment area, with its capacity expected to increase accordingly.
“It’s all about balancing supply with demand. In other words, the central region will have sufficient water supply,” he added.
Previously, the Bayong plant has been upgraded and boasts a capacity of 100 MLD, up from its previous 70 MLD, with an additional 30 MLD added through recent works.
Abang Johari also highlighted the state’s strategy to harness water as both a utility and an energy source.
“With the right technology, we can turn our water assets into new products,” he said, adding that Sarawak’s Rajang Basin holds significant potential for such initiatives.
He stressed that while water resources are abundant, challenges remain in improving the pipe grid and financing infrastructure development. However, he was optimistic that by 2030, Sarawak can achieve 100% treated water supply coverage for its population and industries.
“Some states are struggling with water issues. If we can manage ours well, it can become an economic advantage—especially to attract investments like data centres, which require both power and water,” he said.
