MIRI: More than 200 households in Vista Perdana registered for piped gas connections during a community outreach programme, highlighting strong demand for the service and future network expansion.
The encouraging response was recorded during a community registration drive organised by Sarawak Gas and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) together with Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK) of Padang Kerbau and Tanjong Batu on Sunday (June 21), which was attended by Sarawak Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
Lee said the initiative was introduced to make the application process more accessible by bringing registration services directly to residents instead of requiring them to visit Sarawak Gas offices.
“Many residents have been asking for gas connections. Previously, they had to come individually to fill in forms and submit their particulars. We felt it would be easier to bring the service to them and explain the application process face-to-face,” he told reporters.
The registration exercise, coordinated through the Senadin Service Centre, enabled residents to obtain information on the requirements for gas connections and submit their applications on the spot.
Lee said the turnout had exceeded expectations, with more than 200 residents registering during the one-day programme.
“The response has been very good. The number of people who turned up shows there is genuine interest among residents for gas supply in this area,” he said.
He noted that the applications would provide Sarawak Gas and PETROS with important data in assessing the feasibility of extending the gas distribution network to the housing estate.
According to Lee, a sufficient number of applications is necessary before utility providers can proceed with infrastructure investments and network expansion.
“When there is strong demand, it gives the utility providers confidence to move forward with the necessary planning and infrastructure works,” he said.
Residents were also briefed on the procedures involved in obtaining gas connections, including the installation process and the engagement of approved gas contractors.
Lee said homeowners would be provided with a list of approved contractors, enabling them to compare quotations and choose one that meets their requirements.
He added that the outreach programme was part of a broader effort to bring government and utility services closer to the people while ensuring residents were well informed about available services.
Following the positive response in Vista Perdana, Lee said similar registration exercises would be conducted in other residential areas where demand for piped gas services has been expressed.
“Residents in several other neighbourhoods have also requested similar programmes. We will continue working with Sarawak Gas and PETROS to bring these services to more communities,” he said.
The minister said the initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving access to essential utilities while supporting the expansion of Sarawak’s energy infrastructure to meet the needs of the state’s growing urban population.
