MIRI: Water supply in all affected areas in Miri has now been fully restored following the successful completion of repair works on a 1,100-millimetre diameter main pipe at Mile 7, Miri-Bintulu Road.

This subsequently ends the water supply disruptions that have impacted residents, business premises, and institutions in the city over the past few days.

In a media statement, Sarawak Minister for Transport and Senadin Assemblyman Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said that the successful restoration of the water supply was the result of close cooperation among various government agencies, utility providers, community organisations, frontliners, the media, volunteers, and the public.

According to him, the situation experienced throughout the water disruption period demonstrated high spirits of cooperation, commitment, and community unity among all parties involved.

He noted that although prior notice had been issued and consumers were advised to store adequate water supplies before the repair works were carried out, he understood the hardships faced by families, businesses, schools, hospitals, and other institutions affected by the disruption.

He said throughout the repair and restoration operations, he constantly monitored current developments by maintaining close contact with Sarawak Water and relevant agencies.

In fact, he also went on-site to personally inspect the progress of the repair works, water distribution locations, and affected areas, besides meeting with residents and personnel working on the ground.

According to him, the dedication and teamwork displayed by all involved were highly commendable, as they were willing to work around the clock, including during the night and under challenging weather conditions.

In the meantime, he informed that heavy rain at one point during the repair operations had slowed down execution and created additional challenges from technical and engineering perspectives.

However, the difficult weather conditions and muddy work site did not deter the spirit of the repair team, who continued their efforts to ensure the repair works could be completed safely and as quickly as possible.

Dato Sri Lee also recorded his appreciation to Sarawak Water for leading the repair and water restoration efforts, as well as to all agencies and organisations that played vital roles throughout the operation.

Among the agencies involved were the Department of Rural Water Supply (JBALB), Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM), Public Works Department (JKR), Sarawak Energy, Miri Divisional Resident's Office, Miri District Office, Miri District Education Office, Miri City Council (MCC), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), Malaysian Red Crescent Society (PBSM), Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), Miri Hospital, media partners, volunteers, and individuals who contributed to the success of the operation.

He stated that every individual played a crucial role in ensuring the operation was successfully executed, whether as engineers, technical staff, contractors, enforcement personnel, emergency responders, health workers, administrators, community leaders, media, or volunteers.

At the same time, he extended his gratitude to the entire Miri community for their patience, understanding, and cooperation provided throughout the water supply restoration process.

According to him, this experience proves once again that challenges can be overcome when government agencies, utility providers, community organisations, and the people work together as one team for the common good.

He also thanked all quarters who contributed in any form towards making the water supply restoration efforts a success.

He added that the successful restoration of the water supply is a reflection of the Segulai Sejalai spirit, which has always been the strength of the Sarawak community in facing any challenge together. — UKASnews