MIRI: Residents of Taman Ceria Lorong 4 have hailed the installation of piped natural gas in their neighbourhood as the “best Ang Pow (red packets)” for this year’s Chinese New Year celebration.
For long-time homeowner Koo Chiew Joon, 62, who has lived in Taman Ceria for 23 years, the new gas supply is a welcome relief.
“I no longer have to lift heavy gas cylinders or replace them every month. Previously, refilling a green-coloured gas cylinder cost RM26.30,” she said, expressing gratitude to the Sarawak government under Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) for the initiative.
Other residents, such as Catherine Dabu, 47, and her husband Kansin Lee, 52, echoed similar sentiments, saying they were delighted to have access to this modern convenience.
Meanwhile, Liew Tho Ping, 73, and her husband Kong Chong Kiaw, 74, who have lived in the area for eight years, described the gas connection as a meaningful gift.
“I had always wanted to install piped gas, but it was too expensive. Now that it is available free of charge by the government, I am very happy,” said Liew.
They said this during a visit this morning (Feb 8) by Transport Minister and Senadin assemblyman Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, who inspected the completed gas installation works at Taman Ceria Lorong 4.
Lee noted that 15 houses have been connected in the initial phase, with plans to extend the service to approximately 400 more homes in subsequent stages.
“There are five phases in total, covering 2,000 homeowners in Taman Ceria,” he said.
While the gas connections have been completed, some households are still waiting for stoves to be installed. Lee urged state-owned energy company Petros to expedite the process to ensure residents can fully utilise their new gas supply.
“Prior to this year’s Chinese New Year celebration, I have requested Petros to ensure the stoves are ready so that residents can celebrate Chinese New Year with natural gas for the first time in over 20 years,” he said.
