PAPAR: Papar Hospital has been selected as the pilot site for a groundwater harvesting project aimed at strengthening water supply resilience for healthcare facilities in Sabah.
The project, undertaken by Sedafiat Sdn Bhd, is intended to provide an alternative water source to supplement supplies from the Sabah Water Department.
Sedafiat Chief Executive Officer Datuk Ag Buhtamam Ag Mahmun said the system is expected to meet between 15 and 20 per cent of the hospital’s daily water demand, with a production capacity of between 20 and 27 cubic metres per day.
He said the project would reduce reliance on a single water source, ensure continuity of hospital operations, enhance emergency preparedness and provide a sustainable backup water supply.
“Groundwater has been identified as a new source capable of supporting sustainable water needs in line with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles to strengthen hospital resilience.
“Laboratory testing of the water quality will be carried out to determine whether the groundwater is suitable for use as utility water or as treated drinking water,” he said after the launch of the pilot project on Tuesday.
Ag Buhtamam said Papar Hospital was chosen because of its favourable hydrogeological conditions and site suitability.
“Preliminary studies showed that water quality parameters, including pH and electrical conductivity, are within favourable ranges, indicating good groundwater potential.
“Water samples are currently undergoing detailed laboratory analysis to ensure they meet the required standards for hospital use,” he said.
He added that the initiative reflects Sedafiat’s commitment not only as a hospital support service provider but also as a driver of innovation in building a more resilient and sustainable healthcare system.
According to him, the project is aligned with the company’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) commitments and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those relating to health, clean water, innovation, sustainable communities and climate action.
Meanwhile, Sabah Health Department Deputy Director Dr Ridwan Hashim described the initiative as a positive step towards strengthening sustainability through more efficient water resource management.
He said the department would consider expanding groundwater harvesting systems to other government hospitals statewide if the pilot project proves successful.
Also present were Papar Hospital director, represented by Dr Mohd Ikhwan Chaco; Department of Minerals and Geoscience Malaysia Sabah director Dr Frederick Francis Tating; Pembinaan Kiyawayan Sdn Bhd managing director Ir Joe Primus Kayau; and Sedafiat senior management.
