KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya has provided an update on the region's water supply, noting significant improvements in several areas, including Papar, which experienced a drought emergency declared on March 13, Borneo Post reported.
Speaking at a Hari Raya open house on April 16, Shahelmey reported that the Babagon Dam in Kota Kinabalu is currently at a healthy level, capable of sustaining the region for up to three months without rainfall. This positive change comes as the transitional weather period brings rain to various catchment areas across the state.
"In Papar, the water treatment plant in Kogopon is fully operational, delivering 40 million litres per day (MLD), contributing to a total of 49MLD available for the district.
"However, we are still facing a shortfall of about 10 to 12 MLD," Shahelmey said.
To address ongoing water shortages, the Water Department continues to distribute water via tankers and static tanks, with provisions for consumers to collect water directly from the department.
On Pulau Sebatik and Pulau Banggi, Shahelmey mentioned that despite occasional rainfall, water levels at local reservoirs have not reached full capacity. The water treatment plants on these islands are operating below potential, prompting continued reliance on supplementary water deliveries.
In Kota Kinabalu, the primary challenges are related to distribution issues such as non-revenue water, illegal connections, and other infrastructural concerns.
"We have initiated actions to stabilise the water supply since last year. We are exploring vendor schemes and filling up reservoirs to ensure a more stable supply," he added.
Shahelmy, who also serves as Sabah Works Minister, noted that the Limbahau Emergency Water Supply in Papar has temporarily halted operations due to high salinity levels in the water.
The adjacent Jetama treatment plant continues to operate but at reduced capacity due to the quality of water intake.