KUCHING, Nov 18: The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication is considering a review of the Water Ordinance 1994, specifically focusing on penalty rates for third parties responsible for damaging pipelines across Sarawak.
Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi stated that the review aims to ensure penalties are increased to adequately reflect the damage caused, as the public suffers the most from pipeline disruptions.
“Under the Water Ordinance 1994, the penalty for damaging pipelines is extremely low, set at only RM5,000.
“This is significantly lower compared to other regions, such as Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, where penalties reach up to RM50,000, and in Singapore, where it is SGD40,000,” he made these remarks during a press conference at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) on Monday.
In his winding-up speech, Julaihi announced that the government has approved the establishment of a single water supply entity, which is expected to commence operations soon.
This involves the consolidation of water supply agencies such as the Kuching Water Board (KWB), Sibu Water Board (SWB), and LAKU Management Sdn Bhd (LAKU). – TVS
