JASIN: The Higher Education Ministry will ensure that the water issue plaguing students of Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) will be resolved by March.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said this guarantee was given by the management of the university, and he hoped it would be realised.
"I want (it to be resolved) as soon as possible. On the part of the state government, I understand that they need (time) to install the necessary facilities. On the part of the university, I do not want to give a specific period but not up to a year (to be resolved) because that is too long.
"UMS has already informed that the water problem will be resolved by March, so I want to see what (further action) they take," he told reporters after meeting community leaders in Kampung Merlimau Pantai, here, today.
Zambry also visited the Jasin Community College and Merlimau Polytechnic, here.
Also present were the Merlimau state assemblyman and Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh; Sungai Rambai assemblyman, Siti Faizah Abd Azis; as well as Rim assemblyman, Datuk Khaidhirah Abu Zahar.
Last week, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim asked the relevant agencies to immediately address the water woes in UMS after Zambry was met with a protest staged by students during his visit the day before.
"I know they are facing a long-term problem since 2021, therefore the university should make it a priority to resolve immediately.
"Reasons such as no provision and so on (do not arise) because they can be discussed and informed to the government to be resolved," Zambry added.