RM291.4 mln Salim water plant 68 pct complete, to reach 300 mln litres per day by mid-2027

Julaihi (centre) during working visit to inspect the ongoing construction of Salim Water Treatment Plant in Sibu on May 5, 2026. Photo credit: TVS

By DayakDaily Team
 
SIBU, May 5: The RM291.4 million Salim Water Treatment Plant upgrading project has reached 68.24 per cent completion, marking steady progress towards securing a reliable water supply for 350,000 residents in Sibu, Kanowit, Selangau, Meradong and Rassau up to 2036.

Minister for Utilities and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the project is currently 4.39 per cent ahead of schedule, reflecting strong implementation progress on the ground.

He said the project, fully funded by the Sarawak government, is expected to achieve partial completion by December 2026.

“The partial completion includes raw water intake facilities, pipe installation, and the construction of a new water treatment plant.

“We hope that by the end of this year, 75 per cent or 75 million litres per day (MLD) can be utilised to increase the current supply of 150 MLD. Combined, this will bring the total to 225 MLD. This will ensure that Sibu has sufficient water supply and that water pressure reaches all areas, including Sibu Jaya,” he said during a working visit to the project site today, as reported by TVS News.

The project involves the construction of a new 150 MLD water treatment plant, alongside raw water intake facilities, pipeline installation, and upgrading of existing components.

“Once fully completed by mid-2027, the Salim Water Treatment Plant will have a total capacity of 300 MLD,” he added.

Julaihi said addressing water supply issues in Sibu requires a holistic approach, as the entire ecosystem must be developed in tandem rather than in isolation like other infrastructure projects such as roads.

“Even if a water treatment plant is completed, water cannot be delivered to consumers if other components in the system are not ready.

“A water supply project is only considered complete when all components are in place, including pipeline systems, elevated storage tanks, booster pump stations, and after undergoing testing and commissioning. It is a long and complex process,” he said. — DayakDaily