By Nancy Nais
KUCHING, Sept 30: The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak received some RM4 billion to solve water supply issues and RM2.37 billion for electricity in the last five years.
Minister Datuk Julaihi Narawi said this was made possible under the leadership of its permanent secretary Dato Ir Alice Jawan Empaling.
“This allocation allows the ministry to not only deal with water and electricity issues in Sarawak, but also expand its coverage up to 83.7 per cent for water while electricity is almost reaching its full coverage Statewide.
“Another water supply initiative of hers was when she introduced direction through one entity and regulatory body in order to strengthen the sector’s resilience and sustainability when facing challenges in the future,” Julaihi said at the ministry’s Excellent Service Award (APC) and appreciation ceremony last night.
Thanking Alice for her contribution in managing and steering the ministry for five years and 10 months, he added that she had empowered the ministry’s operations through ISO compliance for internal process management until it received the ISO 9001:2015 recognition for its management system.
Julaihi also acknowledged Alice as a mindful leader with positive aura in dealing with challenges and obstacles.
Alice has been the ministry’s permanent secretary since 2017.
She was recently appointed as the new permanent secretary to Ministry of Transport Sarawak effective Oct 3.
Meanwhile, nine of the ministry’s staff were awarded with APC 2021.
In congratulating the recipients, Julaihi hoped that such recognition will inject enthusiasm, as well as inspire and turn them into role models for others to achieve the same.
“I want all of you to maintain the commitment you have shown and given. Continue to support the government’s efforts towards the prosperity of Sarawak and the well being of its people.
“We must be ready to adapt to and accept changes with an open heart and mind to deal with environmental changes. The rakyat’s expectations of public services are getting higher by the day and this requires us to continue being responsive, relevant and effective in meeting their demands,” Julaihi said.
Due to the wide use of social media through which the public will share their opinions, comments and complaints, he reminded all the ministry’s staff to be sensitive and responsive to the people’s feedback and always strive to provide the best service. —DayakDaily
