KUCHING: The Sarawak government’s commitment to addressing the water supply problem is clearly evident by the RM535 million allocated for the purpose.
Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Julaihi Narawi said the expenditure was used to implement at least 55 related projects.
According to him, it is part of an effort to improve and resolve water supply issues in several areas.
“So far, 43 projects worth RM96 million have been completed. Nine projects worth around RM234 million are currently still in the construction stage and are expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2024.
“Three projects worth RM204 million are currently in the planning stage, one of which is the Julau Project Phase 2. It is expected to be tendered in the first quarter of 2004, while the other two projects are still in the process of appointing a consultant,” he said during a visit to the Bayong Water Treatment Plant yesterday.
He said, a total of eleven water supply projects worth RM881 million were included under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12) list for approval including the Julau Water Supply Project.
The scope of work for the project includes the installation of new pipelines, construction of high-level tanks, booster pump stations, upgrading of water treatment plants and construction of raw water intakes.
Julaihi said the project is expected to boost sustainable socio-economic standards and guarantee a better quality of life for residents in Julau, Pakan, KJD, Maradong, Bintangor, Tanjung Manis, Belawai and Pulau Bruit.
“To guarantee better and continuous water supply quality in the Sarikei Division, JBALB Sarawak will ensure that the project which is currently in the implementation stage will be completed within the specified time frame.
“This project is part of the Sarawak Water Supply Grid System which was inspired by the Premier of Sarawak to solve the water supply issue comprehensively,” he added.
