by Yvonne T
KUCHING, Nov 24: The Sarawak government will extend its ‘Free Water’ programme in 2026, subsidising the first RM5 of the monthly domestic water bill for households across the State.
Tabling the Sarawak Budget 2026 at the State Legislative Assembly (DUS) today, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the programme will continue next year, with approximately RM21 million allocated to fund the subsidy.
The State government will also continue the Connection Charges Government Financial Assistance, aimed at easing the financial burden of low-income urban households in accessing basic utilities. The programme will continue in 2026 with an allocation of RM12 million.
Meanwhile, highlighting the overall water supply coverage, Abang Johari noted that Sarawak has achieved 86 per cent access, with full coverage in urban areas and 70 per cent in rural regions.
“With this achievement, our focus now shifts to expanding water supply coverage to rural areas. Guided by the Sarawak Water Supply Master Plan, initiatives like the Water Supply Grid and Sarawak Alternative Water Supply (SAWAS) are critical to reach even the most remote households, especially where grid extension is not feasible,” he said.
To advance these efforts, RM409 million will be allocated in 2026 for key projects, including the Engkilili Regional Water Treatment Plant in Sri Aman, the upgrading of Treatment Plant Salim in Sibu, Serian Regional Water Supply Phase II, the upgrading of Treatment Plant No.4 in Batu Kitang, the Mukah Water Treatment Plant, pipelines for the Darul Hana programme, and the Lundu/Sematan Regional Water Supply in Kuching.
In addition, the Premier announced RM402 million will be provided under Alternative Funding to implement Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme for Stressed Areas and Upgrading and Replacement of Water Pipelines Programme.
To improve electricity coverage in rural areas in Sarawak, under this Budget, RM46 million will be allocated next year to implement rural electricity supply projects, such as additional and Late Application Fund (ALAF), Connect Stand-alone Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES) villages or longhouses to nearby grid with road access, replacement of Batteries and Key Components for Stand Alone Solar System, and the upgrading of electricity supply in Samarahan Division.
“This effort is further intensified through a provision of RM153 million under the Alternative Funding next year to implement the Rural Electrification Scheme,” Abang Johari said. – DayakDaily
