MIRI: The surge in electricity theft that is linked to crypto mining activities in Miri is a cause for concern views Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew.
The Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts urged property owners to monitor their electricity usage closely as well as screen future tenants.
The Piasau assemblyman also emphasised the importance of documenting tenant particulars for future safety records.
“Top officers from Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) in Kuching have highlighted Miri recorded as the highest cases of crypto mining activities.
“Given the evolving nature of these operations, staying abreast of current trends and collaborating with law enforcement agencies is paramount to effectively address the issue,” he said.
He was speaking during a press conference on Wednesday at the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Piasau branch office.
He added, there were over 100 reported cases of crypto mining activities in 2020. In 2024, a total five has been reported cases thus far.
The modus operandi for the operations now has evolved, he said, with syndicates targeting residential properties to avoid detection in lieu of shophouses.
“Authorities are closely scrutinising the modus operandi of these illicit operations.
Now, there is a new trend emerging as operations move from urban to suburban and even rural areas,” he added.
