KUCHING: The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) has expressed its appreciation for the Federal Government’s approval, allowing the Sarawak Government to implement water infrastructure projects valued at less than RM50 million.

Its Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi remarked that the Federal Government's decision would enable Sarawak to expedite these vital water projects, complementing the state’s ongoing efforts, particularly in rural areas.

"I understand that a recent approval for 2025 allows the Sarawak Government, through the Department of Rural Water Supply (JBALB), to execute water-related projects valued below RM50 million, which have been sanctioned by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW)," he said.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Sarawak Water Supply Sports (SBAS) at a local hotel on Thursday, Dato Sri Julaihi expressed his hope that this initiative would further support the Sarawak Government’s ongoing efforts in water supply development.

"This approach should also help address delays in Federal Government project implementation, ensuring that Sarawakian residents, particularly those in rural areas, receive clean and uninterrupted water supply," he added.

Dato Sri Julaihi further highlighted the Sarawak Government's intensified efforts to improve water supply access in rural areas, citing the implementation of two master plans with a combined allocation of RM4.6 billion.

"In terms of financial commitment, the Sarawak Government has approved a substantial allocation for the Sarawak Water Master Plan and the Drip Water System across the state.

Through alternative financing and allocations under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), RM4.6 billion has been earmarked for 407 projects to date. Of these, 289 projects, representing 71 per cent, have been completed, while 79 projects (19.4 per cent) are in the pre-contract stage, with the remainder at various stages of implementation," he explained.

The Minister also noted that the Sarawak Government has successfully achieved 85 per cent clean water supply coverage across the region, including rural areas.

Among those present at the event were Permanent Secretary of MUT, Datu Jafri Lias, Deputy Permanent Secretary of MUT, Syed Fauzi, Director of JBALB Sarawak, Ir Ts Awang Mohammad Fadillah Awang Redzuan, General Manager of the Kuching Water Board, Ir Rodziah Mohamad, General Manager of the Sibu Water Board, Abdul Malik, and Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd, Ir Ts Daniel Punang, along with other distinguished guests. -UKASnews