PITAS: The construction of a mini integrated water treatment plant (Solar IOT) gives new hope to more than 200 residents of Kampung Lok Dangkaan to enjoy clean water supply.
The RM290,000 plant was built in collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Sabah State Baitulmal Corporation, Nur Jauhar Foundation and the National Strategic Economic Implementation and Coordination Agency (Laksana).
A resident, Rasman Ismail, 52, was glad he now has the clean water for his family’s daily use.
“Before this, we depended on well water and rain. In fact, we were often worried during a prolonged dry season.
“The residents were grateful when our village was chosen to implement this project last year.
“It may be a small thing and seem normal to people out there, but a blessing for us in Kg Lok Dangkaan,” he said when met after the Inauguration ceremony.
Rasman also urged the government upgrade the village road.
The existing laterite road is difficult for light vehicles to pass in addition to the uneven surface structure.
Rasman said the situation is worse during the rainy season when it would be muddy, making it difficult for residents to go in and out of the village, especially during an emergency.
“The distance between our village and Pitas township is only about 12km but the journey takes up to an hour and 30 minutes.
“If we have a paved road, time can be shortened in addition to being able to bring more progress and basic facilities such as electricity supply and the construction of schools for the children,” he said.
Sabah Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI) Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif said the State Government is always sensitive to the plight of the people in the rural and interior areas of Sabah who are admittedly still in need of many basic facilities.
“I through KSTI will continue to monitor the needs of our people in rural and interior areas. Just like in Kampung Lok Dangkaan, we are going to create al-Quran and fardu ain (KAFA) classes.
