By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 15: State Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi has announced the establishment of an integrated management office (IMO) to handle the process of merging water supply authorities in Sarawak.
According to a TVS news report, Julaihi stated that the candidate who will lead the IMO has been identified and will be in charge of ensuring the successful merger of the Kuching Water Board (KWB), Sibu Water Board (SWB), and LAKU Management Sdn Bhd.
“The name (of the new entity) has yet to be announced, but the IMO will handle the process of merging all water supply authorities. IMO will implement this year,” he was quoted as saying in the news report.
Julaihi made the remarks when met by reporters during his Aidilfitri Open House, which was held at his residence here yesterday (April 14).
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg was present at the event, as were his two deputies, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Julaihi stated that Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) had not been merged with the three water supply authorities.
The minister also announced that the State government has approved RM1.083 billion over a five-year period to fund projects to upgrade Sarawak’s water supply system.
He explained that 2,740 kilometres of pipes must be replaced and upgraded throughout Sarawak.
“For the first year alone, RM247 million was approved for works to improve the water supply system,” he added. — DayakDaily
