Electricity amendment Bill unanimously passed

The Electricity (Amendment) Bill was unanimously passed at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) on Tuesday, November 21. The bill was tabled by Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi and passed after the third reading.

In response to Miro Simuh (GPS-Serembu) during his winding-up speech, Julaihi stated that there is no need to create or establish an Energy Commission under the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication. He explained that the current electricity regulatory role is carried out by the Electricity Supply Department in the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication, which is headed by the Director of Electricity Supply appointed under the Electricity Ordinance. According to Julaihi, the current regulatory framework has proven to be effective.

During the debate on the Bill, Miro suggested that the august House establish a Commission to oversee the supply and commission of electricity in Sarawak.

Meanwhile, in response to Baru Bian (PSB-Ba’Kelalan) regarding the new section 27(3)(a) of the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, Julaihi clarified that the right to electricity is not absolute. He emphasized that this right can be exercised under the law, which means paying for the electricity consumed and not using it for illegal purposes. Julaihi noted that there is no human right to avoid paying for electricity or to steal it through meter tampering. Therefore, an electricity supplier cannot be compelled to supply to any person who has previously committed any offence, including theft or the illegal use of electricity, under the Principal Ordinance.

Julaihi added that Clause 20 of the Bill allows any person to apply for electricity, considering that access to electricity is a basic necessity for individuals, including commercial and industrial consumers. He stated, “As the clause states, any person is entitled to be supplied with electricity.” Julaihi also mentioned that the amendment specifies the pre-conditions for supply and the right of a licensee to refuse supply when it has been previously disconnected due to non-payment of bill arrears or the misuse of electricity for unlawful purposes. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that nobody abuses or steals electricity by implementing adequate and effective deterrence measures.