Lau (left) visits a west bank resident to hear about their experiences on significant improvements in water supply.
SIBU (May 3): The commissioning of the Sungai Sadit Water Treatment Plant in May last year has improved long-standing water supply issues affecting Sibu’s west bank, said Councillor Kevin Lau.
The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan chairman said the project has led to a noticeable improvement in the living conditions of residents, especially those who long endured low water pressure and intermittent supply disruptions.
“Prior to the plant’s operation, almost every household had to store water daily—not only by collecting rainwater but also filling buckets as a precaution against sudden outages.
“Even routine activities like showering were inconvenient, as water heaters often fluctuated between hot and cold due to inconsistent pressure,” he said in a statement yesterday.
“The situation became more severe during weekends and public holidays when water demand increased. Accessing water during the day was difficult, and even basic cooking required additional time and effort.
“For those involved in agriculture, livestock farming and vegetable cultivation, the unreliable water supply directly affected their livelihoods. Some shipyard operators were also long troubled by the issue,” he said.
Lau last Friday attended a family gathering organised by the branch’s Youth wing, where some residents—Lau Hui Kuok, Tie Pik Ling, Tai Siew Huong, Kong Chung Ing, and Lee Toh Mieng—shared their experiences of the significant improvements in water supply.
They unanimously stated that since the Sungai Sadit Water Treatment Plant became operational, the long-standing water supply issues that had affected their daily lives have been greatly alleviated.
“In the past, even when we turned the tap to the maximum, the water flow was still very weak. Now, with just a slight turn, the water flow is already strong and sufficient,” they said, describing the stark contrast based on their daily experiences.
They added that there was no longer a need to store water daily, nor worry about sudden disruptions or low pressure. Daily life has become more convenient and stable, and they can now use water with confidence.
Residents also expressed their gratitude, noting that the Sarawak government and the Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd (Central Region) had actively implemented the necessary projects and, through community leaders, engaged directly with rural communities to understand their needs and effectively resolve the issues, bringing real benefits to the people.
A noticeable improvement in water supply after the Sungai Sadit Water Treatment Plant became operational.
Lau noted that the success of the Sungai Sadit Water Treatment Plant could serve as a reference for improving water supply in other areas.
“The construction of a new water treatment plant in the Rantau Panjang area has recently commenced, reflecting the Sarawak government’s continued commitment to addressing the basic water needs of rural communities and advancing related infrastructure development,” he pointed out.
According to Lau, residents in Rantau Panjang, particularly those living in longhouses, had similarly faced prolonged issues of low water pressure and insufficient supply, which caused considerable inconvenience in their daily lives.
“With the new plant now underway, it is expected to significantly enhance the reliability of water supply in the area, ensuring residents have access to a more dependable water source.”
Lau also revealed that his team had submitted a memorandum to Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Nawari during the commissioning of the Sungai Sadit plant in May last year, highlighting water supply issues in Rantau Panjang.
He said the team has since continued to follow up on the matter and, with the success seen in Sungai Sadit, is now more confident of achieving similar improvements for Rantau Panjang.
He further disclosed that his team had conducted multiple site visits, engaging directly with residents while maintaining close communication and coordination with the Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd (Central Region) to push for solutions.