LONDON: The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) is intensifying efforts to explore alternative technologies to broaden access to clean water, particularly in rural and remote areas that remain inaccessible through conventional means.
Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said this step is important as many rural and interior communities still face challenges in obtaining water supply through conventional methods, and the Sarawak government does not want them to continue lagging behind in enjoying this basic necessity.
“In Sarawak, we already have a water supply in urban areas, but there are still remote areas that are difficult to access.
“Therefore, we need to use different technologies to channel water supply to these areas, as conventional methods are no longer suitable,” he said.
He said this in his brief speech while leading Sarawak’s official working visit to the Wessex Water Operations Centre, owned by YTL Corporation, United Kingdom (UK), recently.
He also said that Sarawak is ready to learn the best approaches and proven technologies, such as those in the UK, especially from the private sector that has succeeded in water management.
“I believe it is time for us to learn the best technologies and management methods used by Wessex Water. I know YTL Corporation has demonstrated strong performance in this regard,” he said.
He added that although water agencies in Sarawak remain state-owned and rely on public funding, efficient and innovative management continues to be his ministry’s priority for the people’s well-being.
Earlier, Julaihi had the opportunity to listen to a briefing presented by representatives of the leading water utility company, covering aspects of performance, water regulations in the UK, water resource management, smart system technologies and innovations, as well as planned investments between 2025 and 2030.
