Kota kinabalu: The upgrading projects for the Kogopon II Papar Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and the Cinta Mata Tawau Water Dam, anticipated to be completed by 2026, underscore the state government's ongoing commitment to fulfilling the basic needs of its people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor emphasized that additional short- and long-term projects aimed at resolving the state's water supply challenges are underway. Among these is the Ulu Padas Hydroelectric and Water Supply Scheme Project on Sabah's west coast, projected to have a capacity of 6,000 million litres per day (MLD) and expected to be operational by 2030.

Several other projects are on track for completion between 2026 and 2029. These include the Lahad Datu Rural Water Supply (BALB), the Semporna Reticulation System, a new intake project for the WTP in Limbahau, and a new WTP on Banggi Island (Pulau Banggi).

In addition, projects contributing to increased water supply capacity have seen progress. The Telibong II WTP Phase II is fully completed, while the BALB Systems in Pitas and Tuaran are nearing completion. The construction of five new storage tanks in Sandakan is also expected to conclude in 2026.

Hajiji acknowledged the challenges in executing these projects, noting that the government lacks a 'magic wand' to expedite completion. Nonetheless, he assured that every project is advancing according to its schedule to stabilize Sabah's water supply. He addressed statements suggesting that the water supply issue could be resolved within a year, pointing out that this may pertain to ongoing projects.