Water grid, digitalisation drive power Sarawak’s push for universal water access by 2030

Julaihi (fourth right) during a visit to the Sarawak Pavilion at the Singapore International Water Week 2026 on June 16, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 17: Sarawak is intensifying efforts to strengthen its water supply system through the development of a water grid network, digitalisation of the water sector, and strategic regional collaboration, in a move to ensure long-term sustainability, efficiency, and resilience of water services.

In a TVS news, Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the Sarawak government remains firmly committed to achieving universal access to clean and safe water for all Sarawakians by 2030.

“We are committed to achieving full coverage of safe and reliable water supply across Sarawak by 2030. Digitalisation and smart technologies will also play a key role moving forward,” he said when speaking at Singapore International Water Week 2026 on Tuesday (June 16).

Julaihi also highlighted emerging opportunities in the water sector, noting that Sarawak is exploring the potential of positioning water as a tradable regional commodity for mutual economic benefit.

“Sarawak’s abundant water resources open up opportunities for water to be traded as a commodity with neighbouring countries for shared economic gain,” he said.

However, he stressed that all new developments and economic opportunities must be pursued in line with sustainability principles, environmental protection, and the well-being of the people as top priorities.

He added that strong collaboration between governments, industry players, and international partners is essential to drive innovation and build a more resilient and future-ready water supply system.

The event also saw the official launch of the Sarawak Pavilion at Singapore International Water Week 2026. — DayakDaily