With an area of 124,449 sq kms, Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia and because of its geographical distance, some rural areas still do not have access to treated water supply.
Nevertheless, the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government led by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg wants to ensure areas that still do not have water supply will be able to enjoy it.
During the tabling of State 2020 Budget, Abang Johari said the Sarawak government would continue with the implementation of projects to ensure treated water supply across the state.
He said among the projects was the Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme.
This programme will see the placing and replacement of pipelines, construction of booster stations, upgrading and improvement of water treatment plants and digitalising of water supply.
The other water projects mentioned by Abang Johari last year was the proposed pipeline from Assyakirin Reservoir to Nyabau Water Treatment Plant Intake Bintulu, water supply in Serian, Betong, Mukah, Miri, upgrading of Berawan Water Treatment Plant and treated water to schools throughout Sarawak.
To reduce the financial burden of the people, especially in the B40 group, Abang Johari also announced a free water programme for this year. The state government has set aside RM40 million for it.
Under this programme, every household in the urban and rural areas will be able to enjoy free water for the first RM5 of their monthly water bills.
About 600,000 households across Sarawak will be able to benefit from the programme which takes effect on Jan 1 this year.
