Minister: 301 of 407 water supply projects in Sarawak completed, remainder at implementation stage

KUCHING (Dec 2): The Sarawak government is stepping up efforts to enhance water infrastructure by carrying out 407 water supply projects across the state valued at a total of RM4.6 billion under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).

Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said 301 water supply projects, or 74 per cent, have been completed to date, with the remainder at various stages of implementation.

“A total of RM597 million has been allocated for 2026 to carry out water supply connection projects under the 13th Malaysia Plan and Alternative Funding,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech.

To ensure a holistic and long-term water supply in the state, Julaihi said the government is actively implementing the Sarawak Water Supply Master Plan and Water Grid, which have already shown positive impacts.

“Water supply coverage in rural areas has now reached 71 per cent compared to 61.9 per cent in 2018. In urban areas, coverage stands at 99 per cent, bringing the overall average coverage in Sarawak to 85.6 per cent,” he said.

According to him, the ministry is currently actively developing the water supply grid system, including water intakes, water treatment plants, pipeline installations, storage tanks, booster pump stations, and other related components in line with the Sarawak Water Supply Master Plan and Water Grid.

“The implementation of the water supply grid system across Sarawak is being carried out in stages, connecting the southern, central, and northern regions.”

Julaihi said the together with all its agencies, the ministry remains committed to ensuring that all projects are carried out efficiently and on schedule so that the people of Sarawak can fully enjoy these basic amenities.