Anwar Orders Immediate Action to Solve Sarawak Flooding and Water Supply Issues
KUALA LUMPUR, March 13 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has instructed federal authorities to urgently address flooding and water supply challenges affecting parts of Sarawak, stressing that the well-being of residents in the state must remain a top national priority.
The directive was issued following a high-level meeting in Kuching involving Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and members of the state leadership.
During the meeting, Anwar instructed Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry (PETRA) to coordinate efforts and implement comprehensive measures to tackle both issues.
According to the Prime Minister, funding for many projects related to flood mitigation and water supply improvement has already been allocated, and the focus now should be on accelerating implementation and ensuring effective project delivery.
The discussion in Kuching formed part of a broader engagement between the federal and state governments aimed at strengthening cooperation on development initiatives and addressing pressing local concerns.
Anwar said the meeting covered a wide range of topics, including Sarawak’s economic development strategy, infrastructure priorities and efforts to enhance collaboration between the federal administration and the state government.
Among the issues highlighted during the discussions were the need to strengthen flood mitigation systems and improve water supply infrastructure to ensure long-term reliability for communities across the state.
Sarawak has faced recurring flooding in several regions, while some areas continue to experience water supply disruptions that affect daily life and economic activities.
The Prime Minister noted that resolving these issues requires coordinated action between federal agencies and the state government, with particular emphasis on upgrading infrastructure and improving project management.
He also emphasised that open engagement between federal leaders and state governments is essential to ensure that development policies are aligned with the real needs of communities.
According to Anwar, the meeting in Sarawak is part of a nationwide series of dialogues conducted with state administrations to better understand regional priorities and challenges.
Such consultations, he said, reflect the government’s commitment to listening directly to the concerns of local communities rather than relying solely on bureaucratic processes.
Anwar stressed that sustainable development must be guided by the voices of the people, as each state faces unique challenges that require tailored solutions.
“Open dialogue is crucial in helping the government refine policies and respond more effectively to the needs and aspirations of the people,” he said.
In addition to domestic issues, the Prime Minister also shared updates on ongoing geopolitical developments in West Asia.
He revealed that several leaders from Gulf nations, as well as representatives from Iran and Turkiye, had recently contacted Malaysia to exchange views on the current regional situation.
Anwar described their willingness to hear Malaysia’s perspectives as a recognition of the country’s role as a constructive voice for peace in international discussions.
During those exchanges, he reiterated Malaysia’s position on the importance of reducing tensions and promoting diplomatic solutions to maintain global stability.
The Prime Minister said Malaysia will continue to advocate dialogue and peaceful engagement as the most effective path toward resolving international conflicts.
While global developments remain an important concern, Anwar emphasised that the government remains firmly focused on addressing domestic challenges, including critical infrastructure issues such as flood management and water supply in Sarawak.
He said ensuring the welfare of Malaysians across all states remains a key priority of the federal administration as it works to balance national development with regional needs.
-wilayah.com.my
