KOTA SAMARAHAN: A total of 6,328 cases of vandalism involving utility and telecommunication facilities were recorded in Sarawak from 2023 to the second quarter of 2026, resulting in estimated losses of RM48.43 million.

Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the activities had also disrupted service delivery to consumers, as damage to public assets incurred substantial repair and equipment replacement costs.

"Restoration work, which takes time, also leads to service disruptions, affecting the reputation of utility and telecommunication agencies.

"At the same time, the reputation of these agencies is further affected by repeated service disruptions, even though they themselves are victims of vandalism," he said.

He said this when speaking to launch the 2026 Samarahan Division-Level Vandalism Prevention Programme for Utility and Telecommunication Facilities here on Wednesday.

Dato Sri Julaihi said Samarahan Division recorded 308 cases during the same period, with estimated losses reaching RM1.54 million.

Among the facilities frequently targeted were equipment at water treatment plants, water meters, fire hydrants, transformers, electrical cables, streetlights and earthing components.

In the telecommunications sector, vulnerable assets include transmission equipment at telecommunication towers, batteries and cables.

He said efforts to combat vandalism were also strengthened through the implementation of Ops Lusuh by the Royal Malaysian Police together with related agencies to monitor the premises of second-hand goods and curb the sale of utility equipment believed to be stolen.

In this regard, he called on the public to report any suspicious activity to the authorities to help protect utility and telecommunications facilities from further acts of vandalism. -UKASnews