Sarawak Energy continues effort to eradicate crypto mining power theft
KUCHING: Sarawak Energy Berhad will continue to work closely with the state Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and other relevant authorities to eradicate power theft in the state.
In a statement yesterday, Sarawak Energy said its recent effort to combat power theft through Syarikat Sesco Berhad (Sesco) uncovered three instances of unauthorised cryptocurrency mining activities at Shang Garden and Bulatan Commercial Centre in Miri.
It revealed that in all three premises, Sesco’s technical team found more than 150 cryptocurrency mining servers with illegal direct tapping cables connected from the main supply lines directly to the servers through the ceiling.
All these items were immediately dismantled and seized as evidence of power theft.
“Sesco’s meter inspection teams are well-equipped to identify all methods of electricity theft. Landlords are advised to be vigilant when renting out their properties to prevent potential illegal activities by tenants.
“It is recommended to properly register the meter under the tenant’s name to minimise the risk of liability for electricity theft,” it said.
According to the statement, Sarawak Energy experienced a monthly loss of RM54,500 due to unrecorded consumption from these incidents.
“Currently, individuals involved are under investigation, and those found guilty will be charged under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance.
“This Section imposes a fine of up to RM200,000 and/ or a maximum of five years imprisonment.”
Cryptocurrency mining, known for its excessive energy consumption, often leads operators to engage in electricity theft to cut costs and increase profit. This is because the operation runs non-stop and requires cooling units to prevent the servers from overheating.
Sarawak Energy also cautioned that non-standard installations commonly used in electricity theft for such energy-intensive activity can easily overload the electrical system’s capacity.
This increases the risk of short circuits, appliance damage, fire and even loss of lives, it added.
Individuals are reminded to exercise caution when dealing with service providers claiming to reduce electricity consumption or offer unlimited power through meter tampering.
Those with information regarding electricity theft are welcome to join Sarawak Energy’s fight against power theft by contacting its Customer Care Centre on 1300-88-3111 or via email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com.
Sesco’s meter inspection teams are wellequipped to identify all methods of electricity theft. Landlords are advised to be vigilant when renting out their properties to prevent potential illegal activities by tenants.
Sarawak Energy