SEMPORNA – The Sebangkat Island community near here has been enjoying raw water supply, thanks to a hybrid power system and sea water desalination development project which was completed in 2021.
The move has assisted each of the island community members to save up to RM60 each time they purchased treated water from Semporna town and also contributed immensely to the villagers’ seaweed farming and construction of resort projects.
In handing over the project here, Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said the move is aligned with the ministry’s vision of making Malaysia a high-tech nation, including the efficient use of technology for the benefit of all.
“The Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) is committed to encouraging and supporting the application of local innovation and R&D outputs for inclusive use by the community, especially in helping to increase income among the B40 group and ensuring greater well-being,” he said.
Kurup’s visit to the east coast district was also to witness the desalination plant operations and the job opportunities generated from the positive impact of the machine on the island.
Also present were Mosti secretary-general Datuk Aminuddin Hasim, Sirim Bhd Group chairman Datuk Khairol Anuar Mohamad Tawi, Semporna district officer Alexander Liew, Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) commander Victor Sanjos, and Semporna Fishing Association chairman Salleh Abdul Salleh.
Sirim chairman Khairol said desalination technology can be introduced to the communities living on the islands and rural areas without clean water supply and electricity.
“As it relies on renewable energy sources that are standalone and not dependent on grid energy sources, the system can operate using existing power supply systems.
“This green technology-based system can reduce the release of CO2 gas into the environment, thus mitigating global warming.
“Furthermore, it can serve as an alternative source of raw water for the country in the future and help address long-term clean water supply crises,” he said.
The project received funding from Malaysia Social Innovation (MySI) in 2019 and was completed in 2021. – The Vibes, September 24, 2023
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