KUCHING: The Federal Government's decision to hand over the implementation of 80 Rural Water Supply (BALB) projects worth RM3.47 billion to the Sarawak Government is a strategic move to accelerate access to clean water, particularly in rural areas.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi saidthis step reflects a result-oriented approach between the Federal and Sarawak Governments to ensure more efficient, organized, and high-impact delivery of basic infrastructure to the people.

He expressed confidence that handing these projects over to the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) would speed up the implementation of initiatives previously under the 11th and 12th Malaysia Plans.

“Out of the 80 projects, 50 are currently under implementation, nine have been completed, 20 are at the post-implementation stage, and one project has been cancelled,” he said during a press conference following a coordination meeting on Tuesday.

Both governments have agreed to prioritize solutions and review existing regulations that may delay project implementation, rather than placing blame.

The handover involves close consultation with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Economy, and related agencies to ensure smooth execution while adhering to legal requirements.

The Deputy Prime Minister praised the Sarawak Government’s progress, noting that the state has already reached approximately 93% water supply coverage—a significant achievement toward its goal of full coverage by 2030.

Following a Cabinet decision on March 17, 2026, a total of RM141.87 million has been allocated under the First Rolling Plan (RP1) of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) for the year 2026 to support these projects.

This empowerment of the state government is expected to rapidly expand access to clean water, thereby enhancing the quality of life for rural communities across Sarawak.

Also in attendance were Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Federal Deputy Minister for Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang, and various Heads of Departments. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Ezzah Syafiqah
Photos: Hazrin Sunaini
Translator: Ryan Lim