Sarawak’s utility and telecommunications minister, Julaihi Narawi, said the merger involving the Sibu Water Board, Kuching Water Board and Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd is to streamline operations and boost water management efficiency, The Borneo Post reported.

He said it was part of the state’s long-term water infrastructure strategy.

“This merger excludes only the rural water supply department. The three entities will be merged into one entity that will be launched by the Sarawak premier (Abang Johari Openg) in June,” he was quoted as saying at an event last night.

Julaihi said the consolidation is being guided by a Sarawak-specific model tailored to meet the state’s unique needs.

He also highlighted the ongoing RM1.1 billion statewide project to replace 2,740km of aging water pipes over the next five years.

For Sibu alone, RM338 million has been allocated for pipe upgrades, with RM170 million going to the Sibu Water Board and the remaining RM168 million to the rural water supply department.

“With this upgrade and the pipe replacement projects, we aim to resolve the long-standing water supply issues in Sibu and the surrounding areas, including Bawang Assan, Tanjung Manis and Selangau,” he said.