SIBU: What was intended as a festive outreach during Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing’s visit to Sibujaya on April 5 became an opportunity for residents to voice their concerns over ongoing water supply disruptions.
Instead of exchanging festive greetings, many households shared similar experiences regarding intermittent and unstable water supply, which they said has affected their daily routines.
In a statement issued after the visit, Tiong acknowledged that the issue has had a significant impact on the Sibujaya community. He noted that residents described increasing difficulties in managing daily needs, with some households having to purchase bottled water even for cooking.
He also highlighted concerns raised by residents about the broader impact of the disruptions, including challenges faced by local businesses when operations are interrupted. Questions were also brought up regarding water billing during supply interruptions.
Tiong pointed out that the matter has been raised previously, including during the State Legislative Assembly sitting in November 2023. He reiterated the importance of continued efforts to address the situation through comprehensive and long-term solutions.
Residents, he said, have expressed hope that improvement plans, including the upgrading of the Salim Water Treatment Plant and works in Sibujaya announced last year, will bring about meaningful and lasting improvements.
He added that the community remains concerned about the stability of daily water supply, noting that while sufficient supply is available for large-scale events, residents hope for the same level of consistency for households.
According to Tiong, residents are looking forward to further engagement sessions with the relevant authorities to better understand ongoing efforts and timelines for improvements. He observed that lower-income households, particularly those in low-cost housing and flats, appear to be among the most affected.
He emphasised that residents are not asking for anything beyond a stable and reliable water supply, and expressed hope that continued collaboration among all parties will help resolve the issue.
Tiong said the people of Sibujaya remain hopeful that infrastructure commitments will translate into tangible outcomes, and that a sustainable solution can be achieved to provide residents with greater certainty and peace of mind.
