KUCHING: Sarawak has allocated RM46 million in the Budget 2026 to accelerate the implementation of rural electrification projects, thus strengthening the state government's commitment to achieving 100 percent electricity coverage throughout the state.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said that so far, rural electricity coverage has reached 98.6 percent while urban areas have enjoyed full access.

“A total of RM46 million has been allocated in 2026 for rural electricity projects such as the Additional and Late Application Fund (ALAF), connecting villages and SARES longhouses to the nearby grid.

“Next, the replacement of batteries and main components of the stand-alone solar system as well as upgrading the electricity supply in Samarahan Division,” he said.

He said this when tabling the Supply (2036) Bill, 2025 during the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) on Monday.

Meanwhile, electrification efforts have been strengthened with another RM153 million through Alternative Funding to implement the Rural Electrification Scheme (RES) programme next year. - UKASnews

Reporter: Muller Asen
Translator: Ryan Lim
Photographer: Muhammad Rais Sanusi & Jaed Tepus