SIPITANG: Residents of several villages, including Kg Buang Sayang, Padang Berempah and Kg Pelakat who went without treated water supply on the first three days of Hari Raya hit out at the State Water Department for not even having any exigency plan to send water tankers.
“We had no water to prepare food and drinks for our families and guests.
“The water stored in tanks was insufficient, especially for babies and young children, who had to bathe using bottled water that we had to buy,” said Rosli, one of the many affected.
He said they never expected it to occur during Hari Raya, a time when residents depend on a stable water supply.
“The Water Department should be proactive in ensuring uninterrupted supply, especially during festive seasons,” he said.
Another villager, Zainal, said water shortages have long been a major issue in Sipitang but it should not have happened during an important celebration for Muslims.
“This situation was extremely frustrating. The authorities should have sent tankers to affected residents, but even that did not happen,” he said.
He said Padang Berempah has been experiencing persistent water shortages for years, despite frequent rainfall.
“The Water Department needs to do better and not be efficient only when cutting off supply,” he said.
Former Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) member, Anuar Latif, said the Department should be sympathetic and proactive.
“The Department should have conducted early inspections as this issue can undermine the GRS Government,” he said.
The residents also want Sindumin Assemblyman cum Qhazanah Sabah Berhad Chairman Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob, as well as Sipitang Member of Parliament Datuk Matbali Musah to do their part to ensure stable water supply for the community.
