In a Bernama report, Anwar said the delay in constructing the Ulu Padas hydroelectric dam in Tenom, Sabah, had prevented residents from enjoying constant electricity and water supply.

“Delayed projects have two consequences — the cost will increase and the hopes of the residents longing for electricity and water supply would be crushed,” he said when officiating the ground-breaking ceremony for the dam today.

“For this dam project, for example, make sure its construction is implemented and monitored properly. There should be no more excuses for any delays.

“This project is urgent, so let’s get it done quickly to help the public.”

Anwar also said work on the Pan Borneo Highway must be expedited.

In May, deputy Sabah chief minister Shahelmey Yahya said the construction of 15 packages under Phase 1 of the Sabah Pan Borneo Highway project was scheduled for completion by the end of next year.

In August, Sabah chief minister Hajiji Noor said the RM4 billion hydroelectric dam would serve as a long-term solution to the water woes in Sabah.

In a Borneo Post report, Hajiji said the dam, which will be completed in 2027, will have the capacity to store 6,000 million litres of water.