SERIAN: Staff from three major water agencies in Sarawak are set to receive improved salary packages, Employees Provident Fund (EPF) contributions, and other incentives when they are absorbed into a new water entity scheduled to begin operations in mid-June.
Utility and Telecommunications Minister, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, said the new entity is a merger of Kuching Water Board, Sibu Water Board, and Laku Management Sdn Bhd, unified to streamline water management systems across the state.
“All staff will be offered the opportunity to join this entity. The packages offered will not only be equal to but better than what they are currently receiving,” he said after visiting the Slabi Water Treatment Plant today.
He explained that the integration process is in its final stages and the Sarawak government is conducting several town hall sessions with the involved agencies to explain the service offers available should they choose to join the new entity.
According to Julaihi, the entity already has a Board of Directors in place and will operate as a wholly state-owned company or Government-Linked Company (GLC) under ‘SFS Inc’.
“This will no longer be separate agencies. We are creating a single, more structured entity in terms of operations and governance. It will be run corporately but will remain government-owned,” he clarified.
He said the official launch of the entity is expected in mid-June by Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“The Premier will announce the official name and logo of the company during the launch,” he added.
He said the unification is a critical step to ensure a more efficient and integrated water supply system, especially in supporting the needs of the people and the rapid development across the state.
“With a single entity, we can reduce overlapping roles, cut operational costs, and ensure faster, more organised implementation of water projects,” he said.
He also assured that all staff transfer processes will be handled transparently and based on mutual discussion and agreement.
