MIRI: The state government has set aside RM1.08 billion to upgrade outdated water supply infrastructure, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
With nearly 90 percent of the state already served by water supply systems, he stressed that the focus now shifts to replacing outdated pipelines to ensure efficient distribution throughout Sarawak.
He assured that funding would be secured to facilitate the upgrade of water supply infrastructure as well as ensure adequate provisions for electricity supply to benefit all Sarawakians.
“The most important thing is that we want to upgrade the infrastructure. We want to replace our ageing pipelines, as all of them are outdated. We need to do this for the entire Sarawak.
“I have already discussed this matter with the Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, and have given the green light to proceed.
“I will find the funds to upgrade both the water and electricity supply for all people of Sarawak,” he said.
He said this when officiating at the new Taman Jelita mosque here last night (Mar 29).
Confident in the state government’s initiatives to develop the state, Abang Johari said Sarawak is becoming a driving force in exploring new knowledge, particularly in green technology.
As such, he asserted that he has been invited to deliver a keynote address in Poland after the upcoming Eid celebration.
“A Sarawakian invited to speak in Poland. I have also delivered keynotes in Indonesia and the Netherlands. Why? Because Sarawak has launched a movement to save the planet.
“If possible, the younger generation should seek knowledge in religion. Scientific knowledge is already mentioned in the Quran. So, I encourage, before old age sets in, utilising youth to acquire knowledge,” he added.
In light of this, he said an additional RM4 million will be allocated to enhance facilities at Taman Jelita mosque, including the provision of a funeral van, marriage solemnization facilities and space for funeral management.
He said the development of these additional facilities will facilitate welfare affairs and complete the concept of Islam.
During the event, the Premier also presented a replica check for the Minor Rural Project (MRP) fund amounting to RM395,000 to be distributed to 23 mosques and suraus, as well as 16 churches and chapels in the constituency.
Additionally, ‘duit raya’ was presented to 64 orphans from the Hamidah Yakup Welfare Complex, Miri, and symbolically handed over to 10 recipients by Abang Johari.
Earlier, he had the opportunity to break fast and perform Maghrib, Isya, and Tarawih prayers in congregation with honoured guests and other attendees.
Present at the event were State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni; Deputy Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi; Deputy Women, Childhood and Community Development Minister Datuk Rosey Yunus; Deputy Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat; Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Chief Political Secretary to the Premier cum Tupong assemblyman Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman; Miri Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang who also serves as Pujut assemblyman; Sarawak Islamic Council President Datuk Misnu Taha; Miri Resident Jamalie Busri; Miri Deputy Resident Juan Ubit, and Sarawak Islamic Religious Department acting director Ustaz Ahmad Sukarno Saini.
