KUCHING: Minister for Utility and Telecommunications Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi has urged all parties, especially the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), to work together to ensure the success of ongoing efforts to improve water supply infrastructure across the state.
Speaking at an appreciation ceremony yesterday (Oct 15), which honoured 122 JBALB staff with the 2023 Excellent Service Award (APC) and celebrated the contributions of 56 retirees, Julaihi highlighted the importance of continuing JBALB’s mission to achieve 100 per cent clean and safe water coverage by 2030.
“JBALB has been instrumental in ensuring access to clean water, especially in rural areas, despite the challenges posed by Sarawak’s vast and difficult terrain.
“The government is fully committed to supporting JBALB’s efforts through strategic initiatives like the Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme, which aims to improve the water distribution system statewide,” he said.
Julaihi said the Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme, a long-term plan launched in 2020, will be carried out in phases until 2040 to meet the growing demand for water up to 2070.
The programme includes 285 projects under JBALB, including the second phase of the Alternative Water Supply System for Rural Sarawak (SAWAS), expected to be completed in the next two to three years.
The minister also announced that the Sarawak government had allocated RM4 billion for water supply-related projects, including raw water sourcing, treatment plants, distribution systems, and pipe replacement to ensure the sustainability of water access across the state.
“As of now, rural water supply coverage stands at 68.2 per cent, and we must work diligently to meet the 2030 target. The task is not easy, but with collective effort, we can ensure all Sarawakians, particularly those in rural areas, have access to treated and clean water,” he added.
He also stressed the importance of using digital platforms to respond swiftly to public complaints about water supply issues, urging JBALB to enhance its presence on social media and online platforms.
