SADONG JAYA: The Sarawak government is allocating over RM150 million to improve electricity infrastructure in rural areas, specifically targeting Asajaya, Sadong Jaya, and Sebuyau.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that this significant investment aims to modernise the electricity supply, facilitating a shift from single-phase to three-phase systems for households.
He noted that this transition is essential as the needs of the local population have evolved, with more households now relying on a range of electrical appliances.
“Our people’s standard of living has improved; we now have not just irons and refrigerators but also air conditioning and washing machines.
“With these modern amenities, households require a more reliable power supply, so we are investing to ensure better stability.
“The state government is stepping in to fully fund this project after a previously promised federal allocation of RM40 million was withdrawn due to budgetary constraints,” he said.
He said this when officiating at the upgrading ceremony of Masjid Darul Iman of the Sadong Jaya sub-district on Friday.
Abang Johari also highlighted the broader implications of these infrastructure improvements on local development.
“As we upgrade our electricity supply, we are also working on enhancing our water supply systems,” he noted.
It was reported that the state has allocated about RM1.1 billion over the next five years to replace outdated piping infrastructure throughout Sarawak.
This initiative will replace old pipes with smart, high-pressure systems, ensuring that water services can meet the growing demands of the population.
The Premier explained that this staged upgrade will see RM200 million allocated each year, emphasising that it will extend even to the Limbang area.
“This means that our communities will not only have access to reliable electricity but also to improved water services,” he added.
Also present were Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang who serves as Kota Samarahan MP; Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Aidel Lariwoo cum Sadong Jaya assemblyman; Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah who also serves as Asajaya assemblyman; Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi who serves as Sebuyau assemblyman and State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.
