Vandalism of utility assets causes public misunderstanding, says S’wak minister

KUCHING (Oct 30): Acts of vandalism against utility assets under the Sarawak Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication not only disrupt essential services but also create misunderstandings that lead to negative public perceptions of those responsible agencies, said its minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi.

Speaking at the ministry’s Integrity Day 2025 here today, Julaihi said irresponsible acts by a small group of self-centred individuals often result in water and electricity supply disruptions, causing other users to unfairly blame the agencies under his ministry.

“There have been cases where water valves were opened and diverted to one premises to overcome low water pressure in their area, causing weak flow or complete disruption elsewhere,” he said.

He added that there were also incidents where roadside electrical cabinets were damaged by thieves stealing cables or copper components, leading to power outages.

“Such acts not only cut off power supply to homes and business premises but also cause street lights to malfunction.

“This leads the public to perceive agencies like Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) as failing in their duties,” he said.

At the same event, Julaihi witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ministry and Sirim Berhad to strengthen cooperation in safety, quality, and performance of electrical and gas equipment in Sarawak.

Also present were Deputy State Ministers Datuk Liwan Lagang and Datuk Ibrahim Baki, the ministry’s permanent secretary Datu Jafri Lias, and Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) director Datu Ir Ts Awang Mohammad Fadillah Awang