Residents in Pasai Siong, Ulu Siong and Lubok Pelaie claim long-standing water supply disruptions have affected daily life and Gawai preparations, with some areas reportedly facing years without consistent piped water. – AFP Photo
SIBU (May 30): Residents in Pasai Siong, Ulu Siong and Lubok Pelaie claim they have been facing persistent water supply disruptions for up to eight years, severely affecting daily life and preparations for community events and Gawai Dayak celebrations.
Former Pasai Siong penghulu Richard Ampi said repeated complaints had been lodged with the relevant authorities, local leaders and through media reports, but no lasting solution has been found.
“We have been facing this problem for eight years. Many complaints have been made to various parties, including during my time as penghulu, but until today the water supply issue remains unresolved,” he said.
He said the problem, which initially affected only Pasai Siong, has now extended to Lubok Pelaie, where water is reportedly available only between 3am and 8am before supply is cut off.
Richard said the disruption has caused major inconvenience, particularly during communal events, funerals and Gawai Dayak celebrations that require higher water usage.
Richard Ampi
“We want to store water, but most households do not have large storage tanks. In Lubok Pelaie, the problem only started this year but has already caused serious difficulties,” he said.
He also raised concern over Sungai Pasai, which residents claim has become increasingly muddy following river-clearing works allegedly carried out without prior consultation.
“We depend on Sungai Pasai for daily use. But now the water has become murky and there is floating waste in the river,” he said, adding that residents were not consulted before the works began.
Richard urged the authorities to halt any activities affecting the river and take into account the views of local communities, saying the river remains a vital lifeline.
Meanwhile, Ulu Siong residents’ representative Kenneth Lone Suat said the situation in Ulu Siong has worsened since 2024, with no piped water supply reaching the area.
He said the issue has affected longhouse residents as well as pupils and staff of SK Ulu Siong, particularly ahead of the upcoming Gawai Dayak celebration.
“We have had no water supply since 2024 until now. Residents and the school urgently need clean water, especially ahead of Gawai,” he said when contacted.
Kenneth Lone Suat
Kenneth said residents are now relying on rainwater for daily use, including bathing and washing, while alternative sources remain limited.
He added that river water is not a viable option due to distance and alleged contamination from nearby livestock activities.
“The river is far from our settlement. In addition, it is said to be polluted due to nearby pig and poultry farming activities, making it unsuitable for use,” he said.
Kenneth urged the relevant authorities to take immediate action to restore clean water supply, saying the issue has also raised hygiene and health concerns.