SIBU: The upgrading project of the Salim Water Treatment Plant is currently 25.48 per cent completed, compared to the scheduled 16.63 per cent, putting it 8.85 per cent ahead of schedule.
Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi inspected the site here yesterday (July 29).
The upgrade project, which involves increasing capacity from 150 million litres per day (MLD) to 300 MLD, is under the purview of the Sibu Water Board as the implementing agency.
He said the main components of the project include the Phase 2 upgrade of the raw water intake from 150 MLD to 300 MLD; construction of an 8km new raw water pipeline using 1.4m diameter mild steel pipes; upgrading of the Salim Treatment Plant from 150 MLD to 300 MLD; modification of existing components in Salim Treatment Plant Phases 1 and 2 (sludge bridge, generator set, filters); and construction of a 4km treated water pipeline (2km with 1.6m diameter and 2km with 1.2m diameter).
“The Sarawak government is funding the implementation cost of this project at RM291.4 million, including construction costs, land acquisition for the raw water pipeline, site supervision, and professional fees during the construction stage,” he said.
The project was procured through open tender and awarded to the contractor, Perbena Emas Sdn Bhd, on April 18, 2024, with a contract sum of over RM269 million.
The project commenced on May 20, 2024, and is expected to be completed by June 25, 2027.
Upon completion, the upgraded plant is estimated to serve a population of 350,000 up to the year 2036, covering Sibu District, Kanowit, Selangau, Maradong, and Rassau.
