DARO – Residents of Kampung Penasu and seven longhouses in the Nanga Semah area have gained access to a consistent and clean water supply following the successful completion of the Sarawak Alternative Water Supply (SAWAS) project.
This significant infrastructure milestone marks a major improvement in basic amenities for the rural community, aligning their living standards with those in more developed urban centres.
The official launch of the facility took place on Tuesday at the SAWAS High Level Tank in Nanga Semah. The event was officiated by the Daro State Assemblyman, Dr Safiee Ahmad, who highlighted the state government’s unwavering dedication to equitable development.
He emphasised that ensuring rural communities enjoy quality basic facilities is a core priority for the administration.
According to Dr Safiee, the project was fully completed on 14 May 2026. Since then, the new system has been channelling treated water to all households in Kampung Penasu and the surrounding longhouses.
This reliable supply replaces previous methods that may have been irregular or less secure, thereby enhancing the daily lives of the residents.
The assemblyman noted that access to clean water is fundamental to public health. By providing a safe and steady source of water, the project aims to reduce waterborne diseases and improve overall well-being.
Furthermore, he expressed hope that this infrastructure would serve as a catalyst for socio-economic growth within the local community. Reliable utilities often encourage small businesses and agricultural activities, fostering greater economic resilience in rural areas.
“The Sarawak Government will continue to give priority to the implementation of rural development projects, especially involving basic facilities such as clean water supply, electricity supply and road networks to improve the quality of life of the people,” Dr Safiee stated.
This commitment reflects a broader strategy to bridge the development gap between urban and rural Sarawak. By focusing on essential services, the government aims to ensure that no community is left behind in the state’s progress.
The SAWAS initiative is part of a larger network of projects designed to modernise rural infrastructure across the region.
The launch ceremony was attended by several key officials, underscoring the collaborative effort behind the project’s success. Bujang Rahman Seli, the resident of Mukah Division, was present to witness the occasion.
He was joined by Daro District Officer Zul Usup and Mickly Irai Jawa, the Division Water Engineer from the Mukah Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB).
Representatives from other departments also attended, including Faizulnizam Malim Sharifmalim, an agriculture officer from the Sarawak Agriculture Department Headquarters, and Bibi Diyana Japar, representing the Mukah Division agriculture officer.
Daro District Controlling Officer Jinggan Nyambong was also in attendance, highlighting the multi-agency support for rural development initiatives.
The completion of the SAWAS project in Nanga Semah serves as a testament to the effectiveness of targeted infrastructure investments.
For the residents of Kampung Penasu and the nearby longhouses, the arrival of piped clean water is not just a convenience but a transformative change.
It promises better health outcomes, reduced labour in water collection, and improved conditions for local enterprises.
As the state continues to expand its rural development agenda, projects like these remain central to the government’s vision.
By prioritising basic needs such as water, electricity, and roads, Sarawak aims to create a more inclusive and prosperous society for all its citizens, regardless of their location.
The success in Nanga Semah sets a positive precedent for future developments in other remote constituencies.
