KUCHING, 13 April 2025 – The Sarawak government is almost done with the process of merging three major water supply agencies – Kuching Water Board (KWB), Sibu Water Board (SWB), and the Northern Region’s LAKU – into one stronger and more efficient organisation.
Sarawak Utilities and Telecommunications Minister, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, said this merger is part of the government’s plan to improve water supply services across the state. The aim is to make water supply management more structured and efficient for all Sarawakians, both in cities and rural areas.
“The merger process is almost complete and we expect to officially launch the new entity by June this year,” said Dato Sri Julaihi during the Ministry’s Aidilfitri Open House event at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday.
He added that the name for the new agency has already been decided. However, the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) is not part of the merger for now.
This effort supports Sarawak’s long-term vision of providing reliable and equal-quality water services to every corner of the state. Whether in big towns or remote villages, the goal is clear – better water for everyone.
In another important announcement, Dato Sri Julaihi shared that the Sarawak government now holds over 51 percent of SACOFA Sdn. Bhd. through its investment arm, SFS Incorporated. This makes SACOFA a fully state-owned company.
“This allows SACOFA to play a bigger role in improving telecommunications infrastructure, especially in rural and interior areas,” he said.
The Open House was also attended by Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg and his wife, Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, along with other state leaders and dignitaries.
This move marks another big step in Sarawak’s transformation journey to provide better basic services for its people. — UKAS EDITION
