PAPAR: Sedafiat Sdn Bhd has launched the Groundwater Potential Study Pilot Project at Papar Hospital to strengthen water supply resilience for healthcare facilities in Sabah through groundwater harvesting.
The initiative is expected to supply 15 to 20 per cent of the hospital’s daily water needs with a production capacity of 20 to 27 cubic metres a day, providing an alternative source to the Water Department, while Sedafiat Chief Executive Officer Datuk Ag Buhtamam Ag Mahmun said laboratory tests would determine whether the groundwater is suitable for general use or drinking.
Ag Buhtamam said the project would reduce reliance on a single water source, support hospital operations during emergencies and provide a sustainable backup supply, while preliminary studies found favourable groundwater potential based on pH and electrical conductivity, with detailed laboratory testing now under way.
State deputy health director Dr Ridwan Hashim, who officiated the launch, described the initiative as a positive step towards more efficient water resource management and said the Sabah State Health Department would consider expanding groundwater harvesting systems to other government hospitals if the pilot project proves successful.
Papar Hospital was selected for the pilot project due to its hydrogeological potential and site suitability, while the launch was attended by representatives from Papar Hospital, the Department of Minerals and Geoscience Malaysia Sabah, Pembinaan Kiyawayan Sdn Bhd and Sedafiat senior management.
