By Christopher Lidom
KUCHING, Sept 9: Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi has urged the public and agencies to abandon the “it’s not my responsibility” mentality when it comes to safeguarding Sarawak’s critical infrastructure and assets.
Julaihi emphasised that protecting vital infrastructure, such as electricity and water supply, is a collective responsibility, in which the public has a crucial role to play apart from the agencies involved.
“For instance, while these assets may fall under the jurisdiction of specific agencies, if any infrastructure is physically attacked, damaged by natural forces, or compromised for unknown reasons, it is the duty of responsible citizens to come forward and share any relevant information with the authorities.
“It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that our assets—whether damaged or under threat—are protected. We must foster a sense of ownership over public assets, which are vital to the well-being of all Sarawakians,” he said when speaking at the opening ceremony of the Critical Infrastructure Security Summit 2024 held at Hikmah Exchange today.
Julaihi pointed out that safeguarding Sarawak’s infrastructure should not rest solely on entities like Sarawak Energy and the Sarawak Enforcement and Security Unit (UKPS), but also on the public.
He stressed that coordinated efforts, knowledge-sharing, and the collaborative development of integrated response frameworks will bolster collective defenses against threats, ranging from cyber intrusions to physical attacks.
“While technological advancements are crucial to enhancing security, they are not enough on their own. We must cultivate a pre-emptive security mindset across all levels of the workforce, ensuring everyone is prepared to respond to emerging threats with agility and confidence,” he said.
During the summit, Sarawak Energy signed an extension of its memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the UKPS.
The MoU, signed by Sarawak Energy senior vice president for Health, Safety, Security and Environment Marconi Madai, and UKPS director Datu Dr Chai Khin Chung, aims to strengthen strategic cooperation in controlling infectious diseases, particularly rabies.
Initiated in 2022, this collaboration focuses on the deployment of the Immune Belt Enforcement Team and the joint use of Sarawak Energy’s hydroelectric plant facilities to manage and combat rabies.
Sarawak Energy Group chief executive officer Datuk Sharbini Suhaili was present. — DayakDaily
