RM312.97 mln Engkilili Water Treatment Plant to deliver 75 MLD, targets May 2028 completion

Julaihi (third left) and other distinguished guests view the 3D model of the new Engkilili Water Treatment Plant during his working visit to the project site on Sept 26, 2026. Photo: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

SRI AMAN, Sept 26: Sri Aman’s water supply capacity is set to receive a major boost with the RM312.97 million new Engkilili Water Treatment Plant expected to be completed by May 2028, producing up to 75 million litres per day (MLD).

Fully funded by the Sarawak government through the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak, the project began in May 2025 and is being implemented by with the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB).

Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the project was among the Sarawak government’s key initiatives to strengthen water supply infrastructure, particularly in Sri Aman and surrounding areas.

“The provision of clean and treated water supply remains among the top priorities of the Sarawak government in efforts to elevate the people’s wellbeing,” he said during a working visit to the plant construction site yesterday (Sept 25), according to a report by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas).

He said reliable water supply was essential not only for daily needs, but also for economic growth, public health and community wellbeing.

Julaihi added the new plant would not only increase treated water production but also strengthen the support system for the existing Bayai Water Treatment Plant.

He said the ministry would continue monitoring the project’s progress, while emphasising close cooperation among all parties to ensure it is completed within the stipulated timeframe.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh said various technologies and approaches should continue to be explored to ensure clean water could be supplied to communities across the division.

He also called on the public to play their part in protecting rivers and water sources to ensure these resources remained sustainable for future generations.

“With this project in place, it is hoped that all residents will enjoy the benefits of clean and treated water supply,” he said.

Additionally, Engkilili assemblyman Dr Johnical Rayong Ngipa meanwhile stressed that the project must be complemented by a comprehensive distribution network to ensure its full benefits reached the people.

Also present were Lubok Antu MP Roy Angau Gingkoi, Lingga assemblywoman Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor, Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Datu Jafri Lias, Economic Planning Unit Sarawak director Datu Awg Mohammad Fadillah Awg Redzuan, JBALB Sarawak acting director Tamida Da’adi, heads of departments, community leaders and village headmen. — DayakDaily