KUCHING: Sarawak is strengthening its push for statewide clean water coverage by 2030 through the Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme, a long-term initiative aimed at stabilising and integrating water supply systems across the state.
Sarawak’s Utility and Telecommunications Minister, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, said the programme is a multi-phase plan running from 2020 to 2040, designed to meet projected water demand through 2070.
“In line with water supply issues now falling under the jurisdiction of the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), the Water Supply Grid Programme will first focus on the most critical areas.
“Therefore, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has allocated RM4 billion for the implementation of projects involving raw water sources, treatment plants, distribution systems, upgrading works, pipe replacement, modernisation initiatives, and the Sarawak Alternative Rural Water Supply (SAWAS),” he said.
He said this in a speech delivered by his Deputy Minister, Datuk Liwan Lagang, at the 2024 JBALB Appreciation Ceremony, which recognised Excellent Service Award (APC) recipients and retirees at UCSI Hotel Kuching, on Thursday.
Julaihi said that once the projects are fully completed, rural communities that have long faced water supply challenges will experience comprehensive improvements.
He also described JBALB’s achievements throughout its 10 years of establishment as proof of the agency’s capability in driving the transformation of rural water services, particularly under the leadership of its director, Datuk Awang Mohammad Fadillah Awang Redzuan.
Since taking helm of the ministry, he said he has personally observed significant progress in JBALB’s efforts to enhance water supply services.
As such, he reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting JBALB in strengthening water services for the people.
Julaihi also emphasised the need for quick responses to public complaints, especially in the digital era where information can spread rapidly before being verified.
He urged JBALB to maximise the use of digital platforms and strengthen collaboration with the ministry and other water agencies to ensure accurate and comprehensive dissemination of information.
At the event, he also launched the JBALB Schedule of Rates (SOR), a standard reference document aimed at improving transparency and cost harmonisation in water project implementation.
The SOR, he said, will streamline project assessments, prevent leakages, and ensure all parties adopt standardised pricing in accordance with departmental guidelines.
The event also celebrated recipients of the Excellent Service Award (APC) and JBALB retirees for 2024.
