Sabah takes stopgap steps for water supply

KOTA KINABALU: State authorities have taken immediate, short-term measures to address the ongoing water shortage in various parts of Sabah, says Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya.

Some of the initiatives include distributing water to affected areas by modifying piping systems, he said. He added that the distribution of water supply in phases is also being done in affected areas based on requests. Those facing water shortages over a few days, he said, could call and request for water to be delivered to them.

“How fast the water supply reaches them, however, is based on the availability of staff and the logistics at the time of request,” he said.

Shahelmey said there is scheduled water rationing for certain areas so that daily operations can still go on.

“An Emergency Water Supply Scheme (EWSS) is being built to cater to customers in the northern parts of Sabah as well,” he added.

Sabah’s ongoing water shortage and frequent supply disruptions have caused much frustration to residents. Despite their frequent complaints, as seen on social media, the problem still persists.

Just yesterday alone, six areas were issued with water disruption notices, while at least nine districts faced water shortages on Thursday.