TWO contractors died in one of 28 electrical-related accidents recorded across Sabah last year, prompting calls for stricter safety adherence by the Sabah Energy Commission (ECoS).
The fatal incident occurred in Kota Marudu, where the workers were involved in an operation near electrical infrastructure.
Sabah Energy Commission CEO Datuk Ir. Abdul Nasser Abdul Wahid said unauthorised activities near power lines remain a leading cause of such accidents.
“In 2024, ECoS recorded 12 fatal accidents and 15 non-fatal cases, many linked to unauthorised work near electrical lines owned by Sabah Electricity (SE).”
Other incidents stemmed from electricity theft in squatter settlements and attempts to steal electrical components from substations.
“Activities near electrical installations carried out without permission and poorly maintained systems are some of the most significant contributors to these accidents,” Abdul Nasser said in Kota Kinabalu.
The Kota Marudu case has since been brought to court, with the accused pleading not guilty to charges under Section 55 of the Electricity Supply Enactment (ESE) 2024.
The trial has been scheduled for 24 and 25 February 2025 at the Sabah and Sarawak Sessions Court, presided over by Judge A. Akhirudin Acho.
If found guilty, the accused faces up to RM300,000 in fines, three years’ imprisonment, or both.
Meanwhile, ECoS has also issued eight compounds over various violations last year, with fines ranging from RM10,000 to RM150,000, depending on the severity of the offences.
“Safety cannot be overlooked. We will not hesitate to act against those who violate safety regulations,” Abdul Nasser said, adding that all Competent Persons in Sabah must obtain a Certificate of Competency from ECoS under Regulation 60 of the Electricity Supply Regulations (ESR) 2024. - January 28, 2025
