Call to expedite SESB takeover as power outages increase

KOTA KINABALU: The GRS government has been urged to expedite the takeover of Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) from the federal government.

Warisan Kota Kinabalu Division Information Chief Samuel Wong said with the increase of power outages throughout Sabah, it is justified and necessary for Sabah to have full control of SESB urgently.

Samuel who is also Warisan Luyang Chinese Coordinator, called on SESB to be more sensitive to consumers’ needs after receiving complaints from residents in Taman Kingfisher, Lorong Raja Udang and Taman Iramanis who have been encountering frequent power outages.

“Power outages at these areas are in serious state that it can occur a few days in a week, and at least three to four hours a day.

“Efforts by SESB to provide better services to consumers through work maintenances are very much appreciated, but we hope SESB can be more responsible and compassionate in their delivery system to consumers,” he said in a statement yesterday.

“Frequent disruptions to power supply cause much inconvenience to the people. Many households are worried of their precious home electrical appliances being damaged whenever there’s a power cut.

“Besides residential consumers, it can cause much losses to a commercial outfit in a day and this will result in a reduction of productivity, subsequently affects our economy. Ever since the pandemic started, lots of businesses have been operating from home.

“They cannot afford to face frequent power interruptions as it will majorly affect their source of income.

“We are currently in a post pandemic period. Consumers and businesses have been trying to recoup their losses incurred during the pandemic. Extra burden should not be put on them.

“Any maintenance works carried out by SESB must be executed with organised coordination and supervision,” he added.