Cable theft and vandalism threaten development in rural areas, says Julaihi

KUCHING: Vandalism and the theft of electrical and telecommunications cables in rural areas have escalated into a critical problem, disrupting services and hindering development.

Utility and Telecommunications Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi voiced his concern about the rising incidents, particularly in Samarahan.

“These acts of vandalism, especially cable theft, disrupt electricity and block access to internet and telecommunications services, cutting off rural communities from essential services,” he said during the handover ceremony of Phase 2 of the Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES) today (Sept 30).

Julaihi, who is also the Sebuyau assemblyman, noted that while infrastructure like telecommunications towers and electric poles have been set up in many rural areas, these irresponsible activities undermine progress and harm local residents.

“The impact of such vandalism is devastating, affecting the community’s daily life and socioeconomic growth,” he added.

Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang noted that Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and the Public Works Department (JKR) are working to replace stolen cables and ensure project completion by the end of the year.

The street lighting project, which is part of the second phase of the Samarahan Integrated Regional Development Agency (IRSDA) Programme, covers the stretch from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) to Sebuyau.