Kota Kinabalu: Innovative initiatives are being implemented to address growing water demands and ensure long-term sustainability in Sabah where water production has traditionally relied on river sources.
Among these efforts is the introduction of a new seawater desalination plant at POIC Lahad Datu, designed to bolster water security with an initial capacity of 0.5 million litres per day (MLD), scalable to 2.5 MLD.
This project, a collaboration between Jetama Sdn Bhd and POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd, is Sabah’s first commercial-scale seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) filtration system for industrial water production.
“This project will provide a sustainable water supply for the POIC Lahad Datu Industrial Zone, addressing the increasing demand for reliable water resources,” said Jetama Chief Executive Officer Datuk Ahmad Naim Uddang.
The partnership between two state-owned entities signals a transformative shift in Sabah’s approach to water production.
Traditionally dependent on river sources, the State is now embracing advanced, scalable solutions to meet its water needs.
The modular and upgradable desalination system not only expands water capacity but also offers a flexible model that can be replicated in other remote or underserved areas.
The official agreement for the project was signed on Tuesday at Hyatt Regency Kota Kinabalu, witnessed by key stakeholders, including Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, represented by Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
Also present were Jetama Chairman Datuk Yussof Abd Manan and Ministry of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Permanent Secretary Datuk Thomas Logijin.
The desalination plant will be constructed on a 3.21-acre site at POIC Lahad Datu, Phase 2 (Land 32A), with seawater sourced from the Dry Bulk Terminal.
The project will be rolled out in three key phases, namely Phase 1 Design, build and commission a 0.5 MLD desalination system by May 31, 2025, Phase 2 Conduct a three-month Proof of Concept (PoC) to assess system efficiency and reliability and Phase 3 Expand capacity to 2.5 MLD upon successful completion of the PoC.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Naim pointed out risk mitigation in areas such as regulatory approvals, procurement, technology integration and environmental management.
“A brine and waste management strategy will be implemented to minimise environmental impact.
“Jetama Sdn Bhd is committed to maintaining quality, efficiency, and environmental responsibility throughout the project,” he said.
With rising industrial demand in POIC Lahad Datu, the desalination system offers a sustainable and resilient solution to water scarcity.
The successful execution of this initiative will strengthen Lahad Datu’s industrial infrastructure and secure a reliable water supply for future expansion.
