Kota Kinabalu: Sindumin Assemblyman Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob proposed privatising the supply of water to government-linked companies as a means to combat water theft.
“I understand that a mechanism has been put in place at the Kinarut refugee settlement, whereby companies or agencies buy water from the Water Department to supply to the houses in the area using a card system,” he said, when debating the Supplementary Supply (2023) Enactment 2023 in the State Legislative Assembly.
“Perhaps the government can also set up a similar mechanism for squatter areas, especially in Manggatal, Inanam, and Sepanggar, to overcome water theft issues,” he said.
“I suggest that the reticulation system, which is the installation of pipes to residential or industrial areas, be privatised,” he said.
“If the concession is given to a company, I think we can give this company to GLC, or we can collect all the water treatment plants in Sabah and leave it to the GLC to manage.”
He also suggested that the water treatment plant in Sipitang owned by Sabah Forestry Industries, which has since been closed and handed over to Yayasan Sabah, be upgraded to route water supplies to Sipitang.
"The plant is still operational, but it is no longer in use due to the power outage in the area after SFI ceased operations.
“I believe that reviving the water treatment plant with modifications to its pipe network can increase the volume of water production to Sipitang, thereby addressing the district’s water supply issues.”
He also advocated increased funding for youth training, particularly entrepreneurial training.
Citing the many students who failed to sit for their SPM examination, he said, in Sindumin 400 were eligible but 20 did not.
“Where do these young people go? I hope the State Government can consider giving special allocation for the purpose of providing training for these youths,” he said.
He also suggested the government consider stationing more than one technician at each district office.
He there is only one technician responsible with handling government projects for the district, resulting in certain projects taking long to complete.
He said non-governmental organisations should be given specific funding and community-based tourism be promoted in each district.
