Sarawak-Brunei explore cross-border water supply

MIRI:  Discussions are underway between the Sarawak and Brunei governments to explore the possibility of supplying treated water to the sultanate.

Utilities and Telecommunications Minister Datuk Sri Julaihi Narawi said Brunei had made the request after several areas there especially in Muara and several companies had sought water supply from Sarawak. 

Stating that the state is keen on investing in the cross-border water supply arrangement Julaihi said it would benefit Sarawak economically, especially the treated water supply industry.

Julaihi said the discussion was initiated with a view to allow LAKU (or the Northern Sarawak Water Board – Lembaga Air Kawasan Utara) to supply treated water to Brunei in the future.

“It would give LAKU the opportunity and experience on supplying the resource outside Sarawak,” he said in a speech delivered by LAKU chairman Datuk Nelson Balang Rining at the agency’s annual dinner here on Sunday.

Earlier, Nelson isaid LAKU was always looking at ways to better manage its operations, optimise its system and provide more value to customers.

“We are committed to investing in infrastructures, technology and human resources to ensure that LAKU is able to meet the growing demand for water services while maintaining our high standards of quality in today’s new normal,” he added.

At the event, LAKU presented cheques for RM4,000 each to six Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), namely, Red Crescent Dialysis Centre; MRCS Sunflower Centre; Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society; the Association of Parents with Special Children (Pibakis) Miri centre; Sarawak Society for the Blind Miri and Miri Hospital.

Also present at the event was LAKU chief executive officer Daniel Punang.