Issue printed notices ahead of disruptions, Sarawak Water told

KUCHING (March 7): The management of Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd (Southern Region) has been urged to issue printed notices ahead of scheduled water disruptions to ensure consumers are adequately informed.

Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii’s special assistant George Lam said printed notices would allow residents and traders sufficient time to prepare for the disruption.

He made the call in a statement on Friday following complaints from traders at Stutong Market and surrounding commercial areas, who said a water supply disruption had significantly affected their business operations.

Lam said the traders only realised there was no water supply when they arrived at the market at around 5.30am.

“Only then did they check and find a notice stating that the disruption had been scheduled until 4am,” he said.

However, Lam said most businesses in the area begin operating at around 5.30am, and the traders still faced a lack of water supply at that time.

He added that no water tanks had been deployed to that area, leaving traders struggling to prepare for the day.

Lam also claimed that the water supply disruption in Stutong area was not the first of its kind.

Although Sarawak Water had issued notices on social media, he said the water supply was not restored within the announced time-frame.

“This has caused great inconvenience to traders in the area.

“Some were even forced to close their businesses for a day, resulting in financial losses,” he said.

Lam noted that Sarawak Water should deploy water tanks to affected areas if it was unable to restore water supply within the promised period.

“This is important to ensure that residents and businesses can continue their daily activities,” said Lam.

In view of this situation, Lam suggested that the relevant authorities consider providing compensation to traders who suffer losses due to water supply disruptions.

He also urged Sarawak Water not to rely solely on social media to announce scheduled disruptions.

“Instead, the announcements should also be made through mainstream media and printed notices disrupted in affected areas.

“This will allow traders and residents to make the necessary preparations and minimise the impact on their daily lives and business operations,” he added.