Kota Kinabalu: Electricity supply disruptions in Sabah are showing a marked decline following the implementation of various mitigation measures and ongoing monitoring, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said data from Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) show the average reserve margin currently stands at 12.4 per cent and is expected to increase to 20 per cent by July 2025.
“This increase is crucial to ensure the stability of the electricity supply system and to avoid rationing that impacts the people and the State’s economy,” he said, when wrapping up for the Chief Minister’s Department during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting (pic).
Hajiji also reported that the frequency of electricity supply rationing has significantly reduced compared to last year.
“For comparison, in March 2025, there were only four instances of rationing compared to 13 times in the same month last year, representing a 69 per cent reduction,” he said.
Similarly, in April 2025, only one rationing incident was recorded, compared to three times in April 2024, indicating a 67 per cent reduction.
Hajiji explained that most of the disruptions this year were due to unforeseen technical issues.
“Among the main causes were disruptions in gas supply by Petronas recently, which led to a shortfall in generation capacity,” he explained.
Additionally, temporary disruptions occurred at the Tadao solar plant in Kudat due to sudden overcast weather that caused a rapid loss of energy.
There was also an incident at the Segaliud Main Power Station in April 2025; however, prompt action by the Grid System Operator and SESB managed to minimise the impact of the disruption to just one hour.
Hajiji said the State Government takes the issue of electricity supply seriously and has implemented both short- and long-term measures.
“Various interim mitigation measures and fast-track plans have been approved by the Sabah Energy Council, which convened three times in 2024,” he said.
Among these measures are plans to increase new generation capacity and improve the efficiency of power delivery from plants to consumers.
He said these efforts are essential in meeting the growing demand for electricity arising from the State’s rapid development.
The Government is also strengthening energy infrastructure comprehensively, including investments in renewable energy.
“A robust energy infrastructure is a crucial foundation for economic growth and the wellbeing of the people,” he stressed, assuring the Government will continue to work closely with SESB and relevant agencies to ensure a stable and sufficient electricity supply across Sabah.
“We do not want the people to continue being burdened with recurring disruptions. The Government is serious about addressing energy issues comprehensively and sustainably,” he said.
Hoping all parties, including the assemblymen and consumers, would understand the existing technical challenges, he believes that ongoing efforts will yield results in the near future.
