Dennis welcomes RM2.8 bln allocation for water supply projects
MIRI: Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau yesterday welcomed and was happy with the announcement that the Sarawak government had allocated RM2.8 billion to address water woes in the state’s rural areas within the next two years.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg on Thursday said the allocation was for the first phase of the Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme and will be used to develop infrastructure in stressed areas.
“We had never heard of such a big amount being allocated to resolve water supply issues particularly in stressed areas involving our rural population.
“I was made to understand that a total of 247 projects had been identified to be implemented and expected to be completed by 2020,” he said when asked for his comments on the announcement.
The 247 projects will include treatment water plants, distribution network systems, improvement works, pipe replacement, non-revenue water management, modernisation initiatives and Sarawak Alternative Rural Water Supply (Sawas).
“I hope these projects can be completed within the next two years as all the 80 longhouses and settlements in Telang Usan depend on water gravity feed system for their water supply.
“I hope those tasked with implementing the projects such as contractors, suppliers and engineers will do their best in ensuring that the projects are completed within the specified time frame.
Abang Johari had said whatever the time frame given, they must fulfil their duties and the whole of Sarawak must be supplied with good water within the next two years.