By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, May 13: Sarawak’s rural electricity coverage is currently standing at 98.4 per cent while rural water supply coverage at 70.5 per cent, says Minister of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi.
Speaking during his ministerial winding-up speech in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting today, he said the Sarawak government has approved an additional allocation of RM50.5 million under the Mid-Term Review of 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) to achieve full electricity coverage in Sarawak.
“Under this allocation, my ministry through Sarawak Energy Berhad will implement the continuation of Off Grid Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES) to Sarawak Grid System, replacement of main components in the SARES system, and survey works for medium voltage covered conductor (MVCC) distribution networks from Tunoh to Gaat (Kapit),” he told the august House.
He also disclosed that Sarawak’s current generation capacity is at 5,745 megawatts (MW), with the aim of achieving 10 gigawatts (GW) or 10,000MW by the year 2030.
On water supply, he said the Sarawak government has allocated RM4 billion to implement Water Supply Grid Programme for Stressed Areas involving 304 projects.
Of the total, 259 projects or 85 per cent have been completed, 35 projects or 12 per cent are currently under construction while 10 projects or 3 per cent are still under planning.
“This programme has elevated the water supply coverage for rural areas from 61.9 per cent recorded in 2018 to 70.5 per cent so far, bringing the total coverage of water supply in Sarawak to 85.4 per cent,” he added.
He also mentioned the the Sarawak government has approved a ceiling allocation of RM595.4 million under the 12MP for the implementation of 104 water supply projects throughout the region. — DayakDaily
