By Amanda L
KUCHING, Nov 23: The Sarawak government will implement medium voltage covered conductor (MVCC) technology as the core component of the RM150 million electricity upgrade project in the Samarahan Division, aimed at strengthening supply stability and reducing recurring disruptions in rural areas.
Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the use of MVCC insulated medium-voltage cables will significantly minimise power interruptions caused by extreme weather, lightning strikes, falling trees and wildlife interference, issues that have long affected communities in the division.
“We aim to ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply for all residents, including those in remote areas, while improving safety and reducing damage to electrical appliances,” he said at the launch of the Samarahan Division Electricity Upgrade Project by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Kampung Sampat Sebangan hall in Sebuyau today.
The project, scheduled to commence in December this year and to be completed by 2028, will cover Samarahan, Asajaya, Sadong Jaya, Sebuyau, Simunjan and Gedong.
Its scope includes the installation of MVCC lines from Asajaya to the Batang Sadong Bridge, the construction of two river-crossing cable systems across Batang Sadong and the expansion of the MVCC network to Sebuyau, Simunjan and Gedong.
More than 68 kilometres of fibre optic cables will also be installed to enable real-time system monitoring and improve operational efficiency.
Julaihi said the project further involves the replacement and restructuring of existing overhead lines and transformers to support higher load capacity and accommodate future development, including the growing demand from residential and commercial areas.
He added that the upgrade will facilitate the transition towards three-phase power systems, which are necessary for modern household use and business operations.
The project forms part of the Sarawak government’s broader strategy to modernise electricity infrastructure and achieve 24-hour power supply coverage across the State by 2030, particularly in previously underserved rural areas.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts and Asajaya assemblyman, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Sarawak Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication (Sarawak Energy and PETROS), Datuk Ibrahim Baki; Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication (Power and Telecommunications), Datuk Liwan Lagang; Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni; and Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Ir Aidel Lariwoo, were present at the event.
In addition, Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development and MP for Kota Samarahan, Datuk Rubiah Wang; MP for Batang Sadong, Rodiyah Sapiee; MP for Batang Lupar, Mohamad Shafizan Kepli; Lingga assemblywoman, Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor; Simunjan assemblyman, Awla Dris; Beting Maro assemblyman, Razaili Gapor; and Samarahan Resident, Mohd Irwan Bahari Bujang, were also in attendance. — DayakDaily
