KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Water Department has withdrawn its controversial notice that indicated a crackdown on consumers who install water pumps that breach guidelines.
Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Shahelmey Yahya (pic), who is also state Works Minister, said the department had withdrawn the March 3 notice and that it was not meant to be an enforcement exercise against consumers.
Speaking to reporters at the launch of bitumen and asphalt products at Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) near here on Friday (March 7), Shahelmey said the notice was more to create awareness among consumers.
Under the department guidelines, no water pump can be installed after the registered meter at a premises.
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The use of pumps fitted after the meter is common across the state, especially among consumers in highrise commercial and residential areas affected by low water pressure.
Under the state water regulations, offenders could face fines of up to RM50,000 or imprisonment.
Shahelmey said installing a pump after the meter could affect overall water distribution pressure in the area concerned and trigger issues such as contamination caused by burst pipes.
Consumers and political parties protested after the notice was issued, with most urging the Water Department to improve the water supply before taking action against consumers.
Asked if the government was planning to proceed with the controversial Papar Dam project, Shahelmey said it had been put on hold for other water-related projects.
These included the second phase of the Telibong plant and the Kasigui Urgent Water Supply Scheme to help meet the water needs of northern Kota Kinabalu and Putatan, he added.
Other projects aimed at addressing consumer demand are the Ulu Padas Dam in Sipitang, the Tawau Dam and the tube wells project in Sandakan.
