ROBAN – The newly completed Lichok Water Treatment Plant has officially begun operations, marking a significant step in strengthening rural water supply across the Betong Division. The project, valued at approximately RM28.8 million, is expected to benefit around 6,700 households in Kabong, Krian and Kalaka.
The initiative, launched in February 2025, involved the construction of a treatment facility capable of producing 10 million litres of clean water per day. Alongside the plant, a five-kilometre pipeline of 450mm HDPE pipes was installed to channel treated water from Lichok to the Bukit Lebur storage tank.
According to Sarawak Utilities and Telecommunications Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, the project is designed to resolve long-standing issues of low water pressure in the affected areas. He emphasised that the development would ensure a more reliable and consistent supply of treated water for rural communities.
The Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) has been tasked with overseeing the delivery of water projects in the Betong Division. Julaihi stressed that JBALB would continue to monitor progress closely to ensure all projects are completed on schedule, thereby guaranteeing uninterrupted access to safe water.
In addition to the Lichok project, Julaihi also announced a major pipeline construction initiative in Saratok, valued at RM182.5 million. Scheduled to begin in November, the project is expected to take 36 months to complete. Once operational, it will expand water coverage and address supply challenges more comprehensively across the division.
The Saratok project forms part of Sarawak’s broader strategy to modernise its water infrastructure. The state has already embarked on large-scale pipeline replacement programmes, with hundreds of projects underway to reduce water losses and improve efficiency.
At the launch of the Lichok facility, several key figures were present, including Senator Pele Peter Tinggom, Kabong Assemblyman Dato Mohd Chee Kadir, Kalaka Assemblyman Mohamad Duri, Krian Assemblyman Friday Belik, and JBALB Sarawak Director Datu Ir Ts Awang Fadillah Awang Redzuan. Their attendance underscored the importance of the project in meeting the state’s long-term development goals.
The completion of the Lichok plant is seen as a milestone in Sarawak’s rural development agenda. With demand for treated water rising in tandem with population growth, the state government has prioritised infrastructure projects that can deliver sustainable solutions.
For residents in Kabong, Krian and Kalaka, the operationalisation of the plant is expected to bring immediate relief from water shortages and pressure fluctuations. Meanwhile, the upcoming Saratok project signals continued investment in ensuring that rural communities are not left behind in terms of essential services.
