KUCHING: The Ministry of Utilities and Telecommunications is preparing to extend electricity supply to thousands of new applicants under the Additional Late Applicant Fund (ALAF) project.
Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said that ALAF has so far received over 17,000 new applications, with the number expected to grow in tandem with Sarawak’s development, particularly in rural areas.
“I believe the number will continue to rise in line with the pace of development statewide, especially in the interior regions,” he said.
“To support this initiative, we are planning to allocate around RM550 million under the 13th Malaysia Plan to implement ALAF across Sarawak,” he added during the Sarawak Energy Sungkei with Stakeholders event at the Sheraton Hotel here last night (Mar 17).
Despite the progress, Julaihi acknowledged that delays in project implementation remain a challenge and urged Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) to accelerate the process.
“While I understand that SEB is facing several challenges, one of the main issues is securing passage permission, which has caused project delays,” he said.
He called on all parties involved in the permit approval process to provide full cooperation and assist SEB in resolving the issue promptly.
“This is crucial, as many households are in urgent need of electricity. In rural areas — be it in villages or longhouses — residents expect power supply as soon as new homes are completed,” he said.
Julaihi also pointed out that the lifestyle of rural communities has evolved, leading to higher demand for reliable electricity services.
Since ALAF’s introduction in 2018, a total of RM315 million has been allocated for Phases 1 to 4, benefitting nearly 20,000 households.
In October 2024, it was reported that the Sarawak government would require RM110 million for the implementation of ALAF Phase 5.
Implemented under Projek Rakyat, ALAF aims to ease the financial burden of eligible rural homeowners by providing subsidised electricity connections.
