Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Umno Chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin urged the State Government to take immediate and serious action as the water supply crisis reaches a critical level, particularly with Aidilfitri just around the corner.
Bung, who is also former Sabah Works Minister, warned that the ongoing water disruptions, coupled with rampant illegal connections, are worsening the situation and placing an unbearable burden on the people.
He said the issue has persisted for far too long and requires urgent intervention.
“I am once again reminding the Sabah Government to be more serious in addressing the water supply issue, which has long been a major problem for the people,” he said in a statement, Wednesday.
Bung also raised concerns over the growing problem of illegal water connections and theft in several areas, saying these activities are not only exacerbating the water crisis but also causing significant losses for both the Government and legitimate consumers.
“I want to ask the Sabah Water Department how far has the investigation into these illegal connections progressed? How many people have been charged?” he said.
“Will the department continue to hide behind the excuse that illegal connections are the cause of water shortages when this problem has existed for so long without a real solution?”
He stressed that the State Government must take firm action by strengthening enforcement and addressing the root causes of illegal connections.
At the same time, authorities need to implement effective measures to enhance the capacity and efficiency of the water supply system across the State.
“The people should not have to continue bearing the burden of inadequate water supply, especially during the festive season,” he said.
Bung added that Umno Sabah will keep pushing for immediate action to resolve the crisis, ensuring the well-being of the people is prioritised.