KUCHING: The allocation of RM2.5 billion to implement projects involving public infrastructure such as road projects, streetlights, as well as water and electricity supplies will assist the state government’s agenda of expanding coverage in Sarawak.
Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi lauded the announcement, stating that the allocation will help increase water and electricity supply coverage especially in the rural and remote areas.
“The state government through the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication has been doing its best to develop and increase the water and electricity supply coverage in Sarawak.
“For instance, the state government has channelled RM4 billion for water supply and RM2.37 billion for electricity supply to the rural and remote areas, however this amount is still insufficient.
“With this announcement, we will be able to intensify our efforts and ensure that the people particularly those in the rural and remote areas will be able to enjoy clean water and 24 hours electricity supply,” he told New Sarawak Tribune.
Dr Abdul Rahman disclosed that the electricity coverage in urban areas is 99 per cent whereas rural areas is approximately 96 per cent.
Meanwhile, the clean water supply in urban areas is at 98 per cent and for rural areas at 68 per cent.
He said the percentage of coverage is expected to increase through projects such as Sarawak Alternative Water Supply (SAWAS) and Sarawak Alternative Rural Electrification Scheme (SARES).
