Chamber criticises water crisis in Labuan

Borneo Post

a day ago

The empty water cistern in Wong's house.
LABUAN (July 9): The Labuan Chinese Chamber of Commerce (LCCC) has voiced strong disappointment over the Water Department's (JBA) failure to proactively address the island's worsening water crisis.
Its president, Datuk Wong Kii Yii, expressed dismay at the department's slow response, revealing that his own household was left without water for several days despite repeated requests for assistance.
'I contacted JBA several times to send water to my house, but there was no immediate action. The delay left my family and nearby residents without clean water,' he said on Wednesday.
Wong said he eventually sought help from the Chief Executive Officer of Labuan Corporation, Sukuran Taib, who promptly dispatched water tankers to the affected area.
'I appreciate the swift action by the CEO of Labuan Corporation. This is how it should be done — quick, efficient and understanding of the people's hardship,' he said.
He urged JBA to be more responsive and sensitive to the needs of Labuan residents, especially during periods of water shortages.
'JBA must remain alert and ensure timely water delivery to households and villages whenever issues arise. Don't leave the people suffering without clean water,' he said.
Wong also criticised JBA and the Public Works Department (JKR) for abandoning excavation works near his home after pipe repairs, leaving the area unsafe.
'The dug-up road near my house has not been properly restored. This is not only inconvenient but also poses a danger to road users,' he pointed out.
Calling for urgent and long-term solutions, Wong said the government must act decisively to resolve Labuan's chronic water supply issues.
'I know the government has big plans to develop Labuan — but while they focus on grand projects, they are ignoring daily problems that burden the people,' he said.
He cited the ongoing Borneo Flora Festival (BFF) as an example of misplaced priorities.
'Today, the Federal Territories Department (JWP) is organising major events like the Borneo Flora Festival to boost Labuan's economy. But those flowers are watered every day, while residents don't have enough clean water.
'Flowers get water, people don't — where is the logic in that?' Wong asked.
He warned that the lack of basic utilities like water could discourage both investors and tourists from choosing Labuan.