Sabah ready to face hot weather — Hajiji
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is always prepared to face the El Nino phenomenon or hot and dry weather, addressing any potential issues throughout the season, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said this includes managing water problems effectively and ensuring adequate water supply for residents in every area.
"We face many water issues, around 60 per cent. This is due to possible water theft and underground pipe leaks. The state government will address this issue," he told reporters after officiating the Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) branch in Sabah on Saturday.
Hajiji added that the state government was committed to resolving water supply issues plaguing the state this year, including upgrading and improving water treatment plants in all districts.
"We have received assistance from the federal government amounting to RM300 million. We will use it to address Sabah's water problems. So, don't worry. We will do our best," he said.
Meanwhile, State Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya said the dams in Sabah have enough water supply to last for three months during a prolonged drought.
He said this was relayed to him in a meeting with the State
We face many water issues, around 60 per cent. This is due to possible water theft and underground pipe leaks. The state government will address this issue.
— Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Chief Minister
Water Department (JANS) three days ago, where they discussed water issues and the current hot and dry weather in Sabah.
“JANS is ready to ensure that there is enough water supply coming from Sabah dams.
“However, if we reach a critical level, then alternatives such as cloud seeding and water rationing will be considered.
“So far, the supply from Sabah dams can last us three months in the event of a prolonged drought,” he told reporters after officiating the Scouts' Founders Day Statelevel celebration at the BP house here on Saturday.
On Friday, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad reportedly urged relevant departments and agencies to be ready to carry out large-scale fire suppression and cloud seeding operations to tackle hot, dry weather and the El Nino phenomenon.