Batu 7 Jln Miri-Bintulu pipeline relocation proposed as long-term fix for repeated leaks

Julaihi (third left) during an inspection of the leak at the main water pipeline infrastructure at Batu 7, Jalan Miri-Bintulu, on June 5, 2026. Photo: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 6: A proposal to relocate two major water supply pipelines at Batu 7, Jalan Miri-Bintulu, will be further refined with the Ministry of Works (KKR) as a long-term solution to address recurring leaks in the area.

According to Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, his ministry will discuss the matter further with Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi to coordinate the implementation of the project, including funding arrangements.

“Since the alignment of these two pipelines falls within the Pan Borneo Highway corridor, the pipelines will be relocated to a more stable site.

“Under normal procedures, the relocation would be funded through the Pan Borneo Highway project, and this matter will be discussed in detail with the works minister,” he said in a press conference after inspecting the leak at the main water pipeline infrastructure at Batu 7, Jalan Miri-Bintulu, on Friday (June 5), as reported by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).

He explained that the proposal would require cooperation with the KKR, as the Pan Borneo Highway falls under the federal ministry’s jurisdiction.

Julaihi also noted that utility relocation, including water pipelines, is a standard component of highway development projects, and a coordination meeting will be held soon to further discuss the proposal.

Meanwhile, he said that unstable ground conditions have been identified as one of the main factors contributing to the recurring pipeline leaks in the area.

He noted that a similar incident occurred about three years ago, and inspections found slight road subsidence that was likely caused by ground movement at the site.

“At least now we have identified the issue earlier. We are also better prepared than we were three years ago. With all the preparations that have been made, we hope everything will proceed smoothly and deliver the best possible outcome,” he said.

In addition to soft soil conditions, vibrations and pressure from heavy traffic have also been identified as factors that may affect the stability of the pipeline structure in the area.

On June 5, it was reported that a 36-hour water supply disruption is expected to affect several areas in Miri beginning June 10, following scheduled repairs to a major water pipeline by Sarawak Water.

Sarawak Water explained that the water disruption is expected to last 24 hours, followed by a 12-hour system recovery period, bringing the total restoration time to approximately 36 hours. — DayakDaily