By Amanda L
KUCHING, Nov 23: Samarahan’s electricity supply is entering a new phase of modernisation, but vandalism and copper theft continue to threaten the division’s upgraded infrastructure, prompting renewed calls for community vigilance.
Speaking at the launch of the Samarahan Division Electricity Upgrading Project at the Kampung Sampat Sebangan hall in Sebuyau today, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said past incidents of cable theft had disrupted works and left entire areas without power, underscoring how such acts hinder development and inconvenience communities.
“Copper theft and vandalism do not just damage equipment. They impact homes, schools, businesses, and livelihoods. Everyone has a role to play in safeguarding these facilities,” he said during the programme, which was streamed live by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).
He said the upgrading works introduce insulated cabling and three-phase supply to ensure Samarahan enjoys infrastructure comparable to urban centres.
The improvements are expected to provide a more stable and reliable power system, supporting household usage and local economic activity.
Abang Johari said the State government has fully funded the project and intensified monitoring through the relevant agencies, but community cooperation remains essential to protecting public assets.
He urged local leaders and residents to report suspicious activity to prevent disruptions and ensure the project is completed smoothly, noting that reliable electricity is crucial for raising living standards and sustaining long-term growth.
Also present at the event were Minister of Utility and Telecommunication, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi; 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.
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
