Kuching: I express my deep concern and frustration over the repeated cases of water pipe bursts and unscheduled water supply disruptions occurring during the implementation of the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project.
The incident involving the burst of a 400mm DI main pipe along Jalan Wan Alwi has once again caused major inconvenience to residents and businesses in affected areas such as Tabuan Jaya, Tabuan Kedandi, Tabuan Keranji, Jalan Bayor Bukit, Jalan Song and surrounding neighbourhoods.
This is not an isolated occurrence. The repeated damage to major water pipelines during project works reflects serious weaknesses in planning, coordination, site supervision, and preventive measures by the parties involved.
Just today, in the afternoon. Another pipe burst occurred at Jalan Bukit Hantu in the Batu Lintang area.
Residents have been forced to endure recurring water supply interruptions, disrupted daily routines, affected business operations, traffic congestion, and unnecessary stress. Such repeated incidents are unacceptable, especially for a major public infrastructure project that should prioritize safety, efficiency, and minimal disruption to the public.
I urge all relevant agencies, contractors, consultants, and utility providers involved in the KUTS project to immediately improve coordination and strengthen monitoring at construction sites to prevent further damage to essential public utilities.
At the same time, the public deserves greater transparency and accountability. Clear explanations must be given for why these incidents continue to occur despite previous cases and what concrete steps are being taken to prevent them from recurring.
Development should not come at the expense of the people’s basic needs and daily livelihoods. The rakyat should not repeatedly bear the consequences of negligence and poor coordination.
I call upon the authorities to treat this matter with utmost seriousness and implement immediate corrective measures before public confidence is further eroded.
Jordan Soo Tien Ren
DAPSY Sarawak Deputy Chief
Special Assistant for YB Chong Chieng Jen
8 May 2026
