KUCHING, Feb 21: The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) says the Sarawak government has intensified its efforts to improve water supply access in rural areas with the implementation of two master plans, backed by a combined allocation of RM4.6 billion.
According to a news report by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), its Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi stated that the State government has stepped up its initiatives to enhance water supply access in rural areas. This includes the rollout of two master plans, with a combined funding of RM4.6 billion.
He explained, “In terms of financial commitment, the Sarawak government has approved a substantial allocation for the Sarawak Water Master Plan and the Drip Water System across the state.
“Through alternative financing and allocations under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), RM4.6 billion has been earmarked for 407 projects to date.
“Of these, 289 projects, representing 71 per cent, have been completed, while 79 projects (19.4 per cent) are in the pre-contract stage, with the remainder at various stages of implementation.”
Julaihi also highlighted that the Sarawak has successfully achieved 85 per cent clean water supply coverage across the region, including rural areas.
He said this while speaking at the closing ceremony of the Sarawak Water Supply Sports (SBAS) last night.
Meanwhile, he noted that the Federal government has approved Sarawak’s water-related projects which amounted to below RM50 million.
Julaihi remarked that the Federal government’s decision would enable Sarawak to expedite these vital water projects, complementing the State’s ongoing efforts, particularly in rural areas.
“I understand that a recent approval for 2025 allows the Sarawak government, through the Department of Rural Water Supply (JBALB), to execute water-related projects valued below RM50 million, which have been sanctioned by the Federal government through the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW),” he said. – DayakDaily
