The Sabah Government aims to reduce the state’s Non-Revenue Water (NRW) rate from 59.6% to 45% by 2030 through a series of infrastructure upgrades and water loss reduction initiatives under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13).
Assistant Works and Utilities Minister Datuk Limus Jury said the Sabah Water Department is implementing a comprehensive NRW reduction strategy that includes cracking down on illegal water connections, replacing ageing pipelines and faulty consumer water meters, managing water pressure, and carrying out proactive leak detection and repairs.
He said the plan consists of the National NRW Programme Phase 2, funded by the Federal Government and covering 18 districts in Sabah, alongside a State Government-funded NRW Reduction Programme involving 12 districts.
“Through the continuous and comprehensive implementation of these measures, the Sabah Water Department aims to reduce the state’s NRW rate to 45% by 2030,” he said while responding to a question from nominated assemblyman Datuk Ir Chin Shu Ying.
Limus said Sabah recorded an NRW rate of 59.6% in 2025, highlighting the need for continued efforts to reduce water losses across the state.
He added that the NRW Rehabilitation, Monitoring and Maintenance Active Leakage Control Project is currently underway in Kota Kinabalu, Lahad Datu and Tawau, with completion expected between 2026 and 2027.
During supplementary questions, Jamil Hamzah (Warisan–Bugaya) asked about the current NRW rate in Semporna, particularly in Bugaya, and requested an update on the replacement of ageing water pipes in the district.
Jamil also raised complaints from residents whose fences were allegedly damaged during pipe replacement works, claiming some homeowners have yet to receive compensation despite assurances made over the past two to three years.
In response, Limus said the ministry did not have the latest NRW figures for Semporna and would provide a written reply.
Regarding the damaged properties, he said the ministry has taken note of the complaints and will conduct site inspections to identify the affected locations before taking the necessary follow-up action.
