KOTA KINABALU – Sabah’s non-revenue water rate is at 59%, which has caused heavy losses to the Sabah government and the people, the state assembly was told today.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin said the relatively high rate was due to several factors, including an old piping system that has not been upgraded, water theft, and unfavourable water supply agreements.
The Sabah works minister said the state government had to contend with a previously signed water supply agreement that was unfavourable and unfair, and even had to pay compensation if it wanted it cancelled.
“I don't want to name which government signed the water agreement before, but how can our people live in this situation? We are sitting here as leaders (and) if we can’t help the people, just quit.
“Whatever it is, we will look for the best solutions so that a quality water supply can be provided to the people,” he said when winding up the debate on Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin’s policy speech for his ministry here today.
Bung Moktar said a total of 22 water treatment plants in the state could not function properly due to the river not being able to provide a consistent and unpolluted water supply.
He said among the affected areas was Kota Kinabalu, which was currently experiencing a critical shortage of water supply. – Bernama, March 23, 2022
