Sabah cabinet discusses Tawau water crisis amid dry weather

KOTA KINABALU, Oct 25 — The Sabah Cabinet discussed the water supply disruption in Tawau during a meeting last Wednesday, with the aim of ensuring prompt action for affected residents. The issue was raised by Sabah Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan, who explained that the prolonged dry weather and lack of rain have impacted the raw water sources, leading to disruptions in treatment operations and distribution since the previous week.

Titingan emphasized his awareness of the challenges faced by the residents due to the problem. Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has instructed the Sabah Works and Utilities Ministry to have the Tawau Water Department (JANS) take proactive measures, including intensifying water deliveries by tanker lorries to the affected regions.

Dr Joachim Gunsalam, the Sabah Works and Utilities Minister, assured that the situation is being monitored and capacity is being mobilized to assist those affected. The latest data from JANS revealed that the Utara Water Treatment Plant's operations are still affected due to raw water quality issues stemming from Sungai Tawau. Despite the recent rainfall, the catchment area's rainfall remains insufficient to significantly raise the river level and allow the water treatment operations to recover completely.

Titingan noted that water deliveries will proceed according to the current operational capacity, with enhanced coordination to ensure the affected areas receive the necessary attention. He stressed that the water supply issue should not be underestimated, as it pertains to the fundamental needs of the people and directly impacts households every day.

Titingan promised to stay in contact with the ministry and JANS to obtain the most recent updates on the situation and ensure that the needs of affected residents continue to be addressed.