SANDAKAN – The Sabah Water Department estimates it will be more than two years before Sandakan residents can enjoy a steady water supply without interruptions.
Sabah Water Department Director, Suhaimi Asbullah, attributed the frequent disruptions to several factors, including the cessation of operations at the Hilltop Water Treatment Plant due to depleted water sources in April this year.
Formerly capable of producing 15 million litres per day (MLD), the Hilltop Water Treatment Plant ceased operations due to developmental and technical challenges affecting its surrounding boreholes.
“We are currently in the process of appointing consultants to identify suitable locations for new boreholes, a task expected to take six months. The borehole construction itself will require another six months,” Suhaimi explained.
“For the entire Sandakan district, we anticipate a period of at least two, possibly over two years for water supply stability.”
Suhaimi made these remarks during a press briefing at the Hilltop Water Treatment Plant, located at Mile 1 ½, today.
Previously, the Hilltop Water Treatment Plant supplied water to areas such as Batu Sapi, Bandar Ramai-Ramai, Bandar Nam Tung, Tanah Merah, and surrounding locales. Residents in these areas have faced water cuts and low water pressure for the past two months.
The water demand for the entire Sandakan district stands at approximately 160MLD, with current supply estimated at around 161MLD, just meeting demand. Any unforeseen issues could severely impact district-wide water supply.
Sandakan’s water supply mainly derives from the Segaliud Water Treatment Plant (125MLD), Kinabatangan River (30MLD), and Sibuga Water Treatment Plant (6MLD).
Addressing water quality concerns, Suhaimi assured residents that the water supplied is safe for consumption, citing World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines that deem Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels under 1,000 as safe.
Despite claims of pesticide and fertiliser pollution in the Segaliud River due to nearby oil palm plantations, Suhaimi highlighted ongoing weekly sampling and rigorous laboratory testing by both the Sabah Water Department and health authorities to ensure water quality.
Karamunting assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin, present to address water supply issues in Batu Sapi, urged immediate short-term measures such as water truck deliveries to alleviate current shortages.
Hiew also recommended that Suhaimi engage with the Sandakan Water Watch Station Committee, known for advocating water quality awareness, to discuss district-wide water concerns.
Suhaimi welcomed Hiew’s suggestions and expressed willingness to meet with the committee to address their concerns. – July 5, 2024