MIRI: The Sarawak government’s plans to form a new single water supply entity is aimed at streamlining water management and boost service efficiency across the state.
Currently, water services in Sarawak are managed by four separate entities: Kuching Water Board (KWB), Sibu Water Board (SWB), LAKU Management Sdn. Bhd. (LAKU), and the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB).
The new framework will consolidate KWB, SWB, and LAKU under a single entity, while JBALB will continue to focus on rural water infrastructure development.
“By consolidating these agencies, the government seeks not only to improve service quality and efficiency but also to future-proof our water management infrastructure to meet the growing needs of the people,” said Utility and Telecommunication Minister, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi.
Speaking at the LAKU management dinner here on Sunday (Oct 27) he said a formal announcement will be made soon by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari, marking a significant shift in the state’s water management strategy.
According to Julaihi, the restructuring aims to improve service delivery, optimise operational efficiency, and tackle existing challenges related to water supply management.
This move is also expected to foster sustainable and resilient water systems, benefiting both urban and rural populations across Sarawak.
The restructuring has been approved by the Sarawak government, with a commitment to ensuring the new entity enhances both corporate and operational standards in the sector.
JBALB, while remaining separate for now, is also expected to integrate into the single water entity in the coming years as part of a phased approach to centralising water management.
