SANDAKAN: A team of Sabah Electricity workers spends the festive season on a remote island, working behind the scenes to keep the lights on for an entire community.
At the Pulau Tanjung Aru Power Station here, they operate round the clock as the station cannot be left unattended.
The facility is the only rural island station in the state still manned by Sabah Electricity’s own staff, with other similar areas handled by contractors.
For engine operator Jepri Akas, 56, the responsibility comes with personal sacrifice.
“It does feel sad, but because of our duty, we have to face it,” he said.
With more than two decades of experience, Jepri is among those who have spent multiple festive seasons away from their families.
Another operator, Mohd Faisul Kamis, 48, said the role often goes unnoticed despite its importance.
“We always hear people mentioning doctors and police during Raya, but Sabah Electricity is rarely mentioned. That does make us feel a bit overlooked,” he said.
Younger operator Hippechrles Dainy, 32, said working away from home was challenging at first.
“It was hard being away from family, but it is a challenge that makes us more independent, responsible and disciplined,” he said.
For Ahmad Hamzy Rosenee, 36, the job has become both a responsibility and a source of livelihood.
“This job is a duty entrusted to me, and it is also a source of income for my family,” he said.
Despite having to work during Hari Raya, the workers still find small ways to celebrate, attending prayers or visiting friends when they’re off shift while remaining on standby.
Their efforts have improved daily life on the island, where electricity is now available all day long.
Boatman Aziz Tiding, 50, said life is much easier than it was more than a decade ago, when electricity was supplied for only 18 hours a day.
“In the past, nights were hot and there were no fans. Now everything is easier because we have electricity,” he said.
For the workers, however, the festive season often passes like any other working day, spent ensuring others can celebrate without disruption.
