Kota Kinabalu: At least 14 major hotels in the State Capital have suffered severe water supply disruptions since Aug 8, prompting calls for urgent restoration measures.
The Malaysian Association of Hotels Sabah and Labuan chapter, in a statement Thursday, reported guest cancellations, shortened stays and depleted reserve tanks due to the ongoing dry taps.
The statement said as of 2pm Wednesday (Aug 12), at least 14 hotels in Kota Kinabalu were not getting water.
Disruptions began after Aug 6 repair works on a leaking pipe near Suria Sabah, followed by additional valve replacement works near Jalan Signal Hill Park.
The association said the Water Department had expected repairs to be completed by 7.30am on Aug 9. Hoteliers urged the State Water Department to prioritise critical zones, dispatch emergency water tankers, provide transparent public updates and establish formal channels for financial loss documentation.
“Increase and coordinate emergency water tanker dispatch using verified demand, hotel occupancy and remaining on-site storage to prioritise critical needs and ensure safe water quality,” the statement said.
The association warned that prolonged water loss risks revenue, compromises essential hospitality operations and impacts broader local tourism sectors ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
