Looking ahead, Sarawak would also need longer-term strategic measures to strengthen its water security and resilience against prolonged dry weather. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa First Published: Monday, 31 Aug 2026 10:33 AM MYT KUCHING, Aug 31 — The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication, together with the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) and Sarawak Water, are closely monitoring raw water intakes and stepping up contingency measures to ensure continuous water supply across Sarawak.Its minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said mitigation measures were being intensified as the state’s prolonged dry spell was expected to continue into 2027 due to El Niño conditions.“Water levels at several raw water sources are declining. However, major water supply dams, namely Bengoh, Gerugu, Assyakirin and Sika, are currently recording normal water levels.“Areas under JBALB that rely on small rivers are more susceptible to declining water levels,” he said in a statement.Julaihi said the contingency measures included deploying additional water tankers, maximising water storage facilities and coordinating alternative water supply arrangements where necessary.“A total of 119 water tankers have been mobilised across Sarawak with cross-divisional assistance and additional tanker support from other agencies being coordinated to optimise deployment to affected areas.“Centralised water collection centres have also been identified at potential hotspots across Sarawak,” he said.So far, nine centres have been established in Sri Aman, while another 13 locations have been identified in Betong.“JBALB will continue to assess conditions on the ground and establish additional centres where necessary,” said Julaihi.Looking ahead, Julaihi said Sarawak would also need longer-term strategic measures to strengthen its water security and resilience against prolonged dry weather.“We need to revisit the potential development of selected dams and strategic water storage infrastructure to increase storage capacity, diversify raw water sources and adopt the latest technologies to ensure resilient and sustainable water supply to meet future demand, even during prolonged droughts,” he said.Meanwhile, communities have been urged to use water prudently, report supply issues through local leaders and relevant agencies, and support conservation efforts, particularly in areas where water sources are under pressure.JBALB and Sarawak Water remain committed to ensuring reliable and continuous water supply while managing available water resources throughout the prolonged dry spell.For 24-hour enquiries or assistance, consumers may contact the JBALB Sarawak Call Centre at 082-262111 or Sarawak Water at 082-222333 or 1-300-88-2020, with the latter number effective from Sept 1. — The Borneo Post