Sabah leadership mobilises water crisis response as drought worsens

The Sabah state cabinet met to discuss escalating water supply challenges in Tawau, where residents have faced shortages exacerbated by ongoing dry conditions across the region. Chief Minister Hajiji Noor instructed the water department to adopt a series of proactive interventions to mitigate the crisis and restore adequate supply to affected communities.

Among the measures outlined is a significant increase in water deliveries via tanker lorries to areas most severely impacted by the shortage. The enhanced distribution effort aims to ensure households and businesses maintain access to essential water supplies while weather conditions persist.

The cabinet's intervention reflects growing concerns over water availability in the state, a recurring challenge during periods of reduced rainfall. Officials have emphasised the need for coordinated action between state agencies to manage the crisis effectively and prevent further deterioration in service delivery.

The water department has been tasked with monitoring supply levels closely and adjusting response strategies as conditions develop. Residents in affected areas have been urged to use water conservatively while emergency measures remain in effect.