By DayakDaily Team
BAU, Dec 10: A RM7 million alternative pipeline project has officially commenced in Jagoi to resolve the area’s long-standing low water pressure issues, with completion targeted before Gawai 2026.
In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, Deputy Minister for Transport (Riverine and Marine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the long-awaited project is expected to finally put an end to recurring water supply disruptions that have burdened residents for years, especially during festive seasons.
The Tasik Biru assemblyman explained that the initiative was launched after the current water supply system could no longer cope with rising demand, leading to frequent pressure drops and inconsistent distribution.
“Of the RM7 million allocation approved, RM5 million has already been tendered and construction works begin today. The project is expected to be completed within five months, before the Gawai celebration,” he said when launching the project on Tuesday (Dec 9).
The project involves installing an additional pipeline from Bau, creating two distribution routes on the left and right sides of the main road with a combined capacity of two million litres per day to stabilise supply across Jagoi.
Harry said the new pipeline will not only improve water pressure for local residents but will also support the future needs of the Serikin Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex once it becomes operational.
He added that the new route will serve as a crucial backup to the existing pipeline, ensuring that water supply remains uninterrupted even in the event of leaks or failures along the old system.
“With two separate supply routes, water pressure can be maintained without disruption, preventing the shortages that have repeatedly occurred in the past. We are confident this project will fully resolve the low-pressure and supply issues once and for all,” he added.
An estimated 3,000 residents in Jagoi are expected to benefit from the upgraded system, with demand projected to rise to around 5,000 users once ICQS Serikin opens.
Present at the event were Bau District Officer Eddy Nayoi and Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) Divisional assistant water engineer (Development) Ts Siet Ung Wu. — DayakDaily
