KUCHING: The construction of the Baleh Hydroelectric Project (HEP) is on track despite the delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said construction works are progressing smoothly according to schedule although there were some issues concerning manpower shortages.
“There have been some issues with the availability of workers during and after Covid-19 pandemic. However, the situation has now improved and back to normal and the HEP is expected to be completed in 2026 (until) 2027.”
“For now, I am unable to provide the progress percentage of the project, but it is definitely progressing according to schedule,” he said.
Abang Johari said this when met by reporters after attending Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi’s Gawai Dayak open house at Jalan Lapangan Terbang here yesterday (June 13).
Among the dignitaries present were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian; former deputy chief minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang; Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Julaihi Narawi; and Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala.
He said the Baleh HEP is expected to commence operations in 2028.
Touching on the hydro-power dam project in Trusan, he said a feasibility study is in the process of being conducted.
The Sarawak government approved the construction of the 275-megawatt Trusan dam in 2017.
The proposed Trusan dam is relatively small compared to the state’s mega dams such as Bakun (2,400 megawatts), Murum (944 megawatts) and Baleh (1,285 megawatts).
While these mega dams only generate electricity, the Trusan dam will supply both electricity and water once completed.
