KUNAK: Plans to construct a new water treatment plant sourcing from Sungai Tingkayu are part of the long-term strategic initiatives to tackle water supply problems in this district.
Kunak Assemblyman Dato’ Sri Anil Sandhu said the proposed project is currently in the design planning stage, which began in 2024, with completion expected by 2028.
“We hope this new plant will help meet consumer demand and support ongoing and future development in Kunak. Water is a basic utility essential for the community’s wellbeing,” he said.
When contacted by Daily Express on Wednesday, the Kunak District Water Department Works Officer said the new plant is being planned to accommodate growing demand, particularly in the Madai zone covering areas from Ulu Madai to Lormalong.
“The plant, once completed, is expected to have a production capacity of up to three million litres per day (MLD), sufficient to supply water throughout Ulu Madai to Lormalong. Design planning is underway and awaiting implementation,” the Department said.
Meanwhile, Anil said water supply is currently obtained from the Sg Kalumpang Water Treatment Plants I and II, which operate to supply water to all areas in Kunak including the Pekan, Madai and Pangi zones.
Currently, treated water from Sungai Kalumpang at the Kalumpang Water Treatment Plant I can accommodate a production capacity of 4.6 MLD, with an average reaching up to 6.5 MLD.
The Kalumpang Water Treatment Plant II, meanwhile, can accommodate up to 12 MLD with average production capacity reaching 9.5 to 12 MLD.
Recent pump damage at the Kalumpang Water Treatment Plant II caused supply disruptions across many coverage areas. Brownish-yellow piped water supply has also been reported by consumers in certain areas.
“I have been informed that action has been taken by the plant and water department to address the problem, including obtaining temporary pumps from Lahad Datu for use here,” Anil said, adding that the damaged pumps are currently being repaired.
The Water Department has also implemented rationing in certain areas including the Pangi zone.
Consumers in the district continue to face challenges with frequent water supply disruptions, including in Cenderawasih, Pekan Kunak, Simpang Empat, Sri Idaman and Lormalong, among others.
