PUJUT Assemblyman, Adam Yii Siew Sang, has proposed a fairer electricity billing system to protect new tenants and property owners from inheriting unpaid bills.
He suggested amending the Electricity Ordinance to address cases where new applicants are denied supply due to arrears left by previous occupants.
While raising the matter, he acknowledged Sarawak Energy Bhd’s (SEB) efforts in maintaining a reliable power supply across the state.
“At present, Sarawak Energy Bhd may deny electricity supply to a new tenant or property owner simply because the previous occupant left behind unpaid bills.
“This has caused hardship to many landlords and new tenants who have no connection to the defaulter.
“It is unfair for someone to be held responsible for another person’s debt,” he told the august House during the debate on the motion of appreciation to the Governor’s address today.
Yii said applicants with valid tenancy agreements or statutory declarations should not be penalised for other person’s debts, noting that some landlords have been forced to pay arrears just to restore electricity to their units.
As a solution, he recommended wider implementation of prepaid electricity meters, particularly for rented properties, saying it would help prevent bill accumulation and promote responsible usage.
“Prepaid systems give landlords peace of mind, especially in short-term tenancies, and reduce disputes with SEB,” he said.
Yii added that the meters are also less prone to tampering, making them a valuable tool to help SEB curb electricity theft and reduce losses.
He expressed hope that the relevant ministry and SEB would consider the proposals to enhance fairness and efficiency in electricity supply for all consumers in Sarawak.
