BETONG: Power capacity in the constituency will be increased from 275kV to 500kV for the transmission of electricity generated by the Batang Ai floating solar farm, the largest of its kind in Malaysia.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg explained that the upgrade is necessary to ensure the power from the Batang Ai solar farm can be transmitted effectively to Betong and surrounding areas.
“Smaller cables, like those for 275kV, are not capable of handling the increased load and will burn out.
“Therefore, I have instructed Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) to upgrade to 500kV to ensure the electricity from the solar farm can reach here,” he said.
He said this during the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Betong Zone Delegates Meeting at Dewan Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan here Saturday (Jan 25).
Abang Johari who is PBB President assured that SEB has set up a task force dedicated to upgrading the state’s electricity infrastructure, particularly to meet the growing needs of rural areas.
He said this is part of a new economic approach aimed at enhancing the well-being of Sarawak’s people.
“Rural communities now require stronger electricity supply, and this reflects the significant improvements in their living standards.
“We have truly transformed, and the quality of life in our rural areas, including longhouses, has risen,” he said.
On the same note, the Premier pointed out that demand for electricity in rural areas has changed over the years.
While communities once asked for basic power supply, today, he said they are requesting higher-capacity power for modern appliances.
“People are now asking for three-phase power to support air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines.
This shift reflects the growing incomes and improved economic conditions in rural areas,” he added.
He said this demand for three-phase power is not limited to Betong but is spreading across the state, acknowledging that the people are progressing toward a more modern and industrialised lifestyle.
“The roads are now filled with cars, which is a sign of our success. We are looking forward to a brighter future for Sarawak,” said Abang Johari.
