Sarawak to boost management of water catchment areas

PETRA JAYA: Sarawak will improve its management of water catchment areas to ensure that high quality water is supplied to the people in the interiors.

Chief Minister Datuk Abang Amar Johari Abang Openg said he had directed the Rural Water Supply Department to look into the issue and carry out works to improve the management of water catchment areas in the state.

“I have read the report (Auditor General’s Report 2016) and I will direct the department and other relevant authorities to look into the matter,” he said after the launch of the city’s 29th anniversary celebration at Stadium Perpaduan here yesterday.

The report stated that 18 rivers, which were the source of public water supply, were semipolluted and submitted a recommendation to gazette the identified catchment areas to avoid any illegal activities in the areas.

“I will study the report on other areas and issues that need to be addressed,” he said.

Earlier, Abang Johari said Kuching aimed to cut down pollution by using electric public transport.

“Kuching is well-known for its cleanliness and unity. But, we want to do more for the city. Hence, we are looking into ways to introduce electric-powered public transport to improve air quality.”

The state government, he said, would upgrade recreational parks.

“We plan to transform the old State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex into an art and craft exhibition centre, creating a platform for the multiracial society to display their unique handicrafts.

“We also plan to build a bridge connecting the old DUN building to the current DUN complex and the Kuching Waterfront,” he said.

At the same event, Abang Johari also launched the “DBKU Metropolitan Free Wifi”, where wifi services will be available for city folks and tourists visiting Padang Merdeka and Kuching Waterfront.