Sarawak Eyes Water As Strategic Driver Of Industrial Growth, Regional Cooperation
SINGAPORE: Sarawak is positioning water not merely as a utility service but as a strategic economic asset, with plans to leverage its abundant water resources to support industrial expansion, attract investments and explore regional cooperation opportunities, including the potential trade of water as a commodity.
Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said water security has become a critical consideration for industries and investors, particularly as Sarawak advances its ambitions to become a regional hub for renewable energy, green industries, the hydrogen economy, advanced manufacturing and data centres.
"While many countries are grappling with water scarcity and deteriorating water quality, Sarawak is fortunate to possess abundant rainfall, extensive river systems and significant raw water resources," he said when delivering a keynote address on Tuesday, at the inaugural SWA Regional Water Outlook: Malaysia session held in conjunction with Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) 2026.
However, he stressed that abundance alone does not guarantee sustainability, highlighting the importance of responsible management and long-term planning.
Dato Sri Julaihi added reliable and sustainable water infrastructure would be a key enabler of the Sarawak’s long-term economic transformation under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
As such to strengthen the sector, he said the Sarawak has consolidated three water supply agencies under Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd, while the Rural Water Supply Department Sarawak (JBALB) continues to serve rural communities.
He said Sarawak is targeting full access to safe and dependable water supply by 2030.
Current water supply coverage stands at 86.1 per cent statewide, with rural coverage at 71.9 per cent.
"Among the major initiatives underway are the implementation of the Sarawak Water Grid, involving about 2,800 kilometres of pipelines and 21 anchor water treatment plants, as well as a programme to replace approximately 2,700 kilometres of ageing water pipelines across the State," he explained.
Dato Sri Julaihi also highlighted opportunities for regional collaboration in technology, research, talent development and infrastructure financing, while noting that Sarawak’s water resources could potentially support future cross-border water trade for mutual economic benefit.
He emphasised that sustainability, environmental protection and the interests of the people would remain central to any future development involving the Sarawak’s water resources. -UKASnews
