LUNDU — The Sarawak Government has rolled out a series of major water infrastructure upgrades worth over RM291 million to tackle long-standing water supply and pressure issues in Lundu District and its surrounding areas.
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Among the key initiatives is the construction of a new water treatment plant with a capacity of 20 million litres per day (MLD). The project, estimated to cost RM130 million, is currently in the contractor appointment phase, said Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi.
Equally significant is the development of a 164-kilometre water pipe grid system covering various parts of the Lundu District, including Sematan, with an estimated value of RM150 million.
“When completed, this pipeline network will form a new integrated water grid system in Lundu District, which will be connected to the existing water infrastructure in Bau and Batu Kitang under the Kuching Division,” said Julaihi during a site visit to the Sematan Water Treatment Plant, on Thursday.
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“This will help create a broader southern regional water grid, significantly improving supply reliability and coverage,” he added.
He explained that Lundu District already has several smaller plants supplying around 10 MLD, and the completed Sematan plant contributes 4.3 MLD, but a larger, more advanced facility is now essential to stabilise supply and prepare for future demand.
In addition, RM129 million in water-related funding from the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) has been earmarked for further works in the area, though this project is currently being retendered to ensure optimal implementation.
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“We’re optimistic that once all components are executed, Lundu will enjoy a sustainable, resilient, and future-proof water system,” Julaihi noted.
The upgrade also aligns with Sarawak’s broader utility infrastructure development under its Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.
Also present during the inspection were Opar Assemblyman Billy Sujang, Tanjung Datu Assemblyman Azizul Annuar Adenan, and senior officials from the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak.
