461 pipeline replacement projects worth RM1.08 bln to boost water supply, cut losses

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 5: A total of 461 new pipeline replacement projects, valued at RM1.08 billion, are currently underway across Sarawak and will continue until 2028 to enhance the existing water supply system and reduce the region’s non-revenue water (NRW) rate.

Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi stated that these projects are fully funded by the Sarawak government through the his ministry, with the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) Sarawak, Kuching Water Board (KWB), Sibu Water Board (SWB), and Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd serving as the implementing agencies.

“This pipeline replacement project is a crucial government initiative to replace old, rusty, and frequently leaking pipes that cause inconsistent water supply.

“For JBALB Sarawak, the Sarawak government has approved an allocation of approximately RM558 million to implement 420 pipeline replacement projects across various divisions,” he said in a statement following a visit to the Water Supply Project: Pipeline Replacement at Kampung Rampangi today.

In Kuching Division, 24 pipeline replacement projects, with a total cost of approximately RM17.6 million, are currently being implemented or planned.

These projects involve the replacement of 58.91km of pipelines in several key areas, including Rampangi Scheme I & II, Kampung Santubong and Pantai Putri, Taman Duranda Mas, Kampung Sinjok – Tijirak, Kampung Skuduk, Kampung Maang, Kampung Sungai Buntal, Bako Bazaar and Kampung Bako, Siburan town and Taman Sinjok, Kampung Suba Buan, Kampung Pengkalan Bau/Water Treatment Plant, Jalan Musi, Kampung Kandis Lama, Kampung Sibuluh, and Jalan Tai Fok Sak.

Regarding the Rampangi Scheme I & II project, Julaihi explained that it involves replacing approximately 10km of new HDPE pipes with an allocation of around RM1.6 million.

“This project is expected to be fully completed by the second quarter of 2025. Once finished, it will benefit 100 households and improve water pressure in the area and surrounding communities,” he said.

To ensure a high-quality and continuous water supply across Sarawak, JBALB Sarawak is committed to completing the pipeline replacement projects within the set timeframe, aligning with the Sarawak government’s mission to reduce NRW.

Deputy Minister of Utility Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi and JBALB Sarawak director Ir Ts Awang Mohammad Fadillah Awang Redzuan were also present during the visit. — DayakDaily

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