BETONG – The Lubau Water Treatment Plant upgrade project has reached 45 per cent completion, placing it ahead of schedule by five percent. The development was inspected on 9 July 2026 by YB Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Sarawak, who is also the Assemblyman for Sebuyau.
The upgrade will double the plant’s capacity from 30 million litres per day (MLD) to 60 MLD, making it one of the main water treatment facilities in the Betong Division. The inspection followed the inauguration of the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge earlier in the day, with the minister and his delegation continuing their working visit to assess progress at the Lubau site.
Once completed, the Lubau plant will complement other major facilities in the division, including the Kaki Wong plant near Saratok, which has already been upgraded to 60 MLD, and the medium-sized Licuk plant in Saratok, which currently operates at 25 MLD. Together, these facilities will form a stronger backbone for water supply in the region.
In addition to the Lubau upgrade, two other projects are underway in Betong Division. These involve the installation of pipe grids from Betong junction to Saratok and from Betong junction to Pusa. Both projects are part of a wider initiative to establish a water grid system across the division, ensuring greater stability and reliability in supply.
Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi emphasised that all projects are being funded through allocations from the Sarawak Government. He noted that the water grid system, once completed, will significantly improve resilience against demand surges and ensure consistent supply for households, businesses, and public facilities.
The minister highlighted that the upgrades are not only technical improvements but also investments in the wellbeing of communities. Reliable water supply is essential for public health, economic activity, and social development, particularly in divisions experiencing growth and increased demand.
The Lubau Water Treatment Plant upgrade reflects Sarawak’s broader infrastructure agenda, which prioritises modernisation and sustainability. By expanding capacity and building interconnected systems, the state aims to secure long-term water security for its residents.
Local communities have welcomed the progress, noting that water supply issues have long been a challenge in certain areas. The assurance of stronger infrastructure is expected to ease concerns and support development across Betong Division.
With the project already ahead of schedule, officials remain optimistic that the Lubau upgrade will be completed within the planned timeframe. The initiative stands as a testament to Sarawak’s commitment to delivering essential services and ensuring prosperity for its people.
