24 Illegal Water Connections at UMS Dismantled by BERNAMA+ KOTA KINABALU, Sabah – Authorities from the Sabah Water Department (JANS) have taken decisive action against illegal water connections at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), successfully dismantling 24 such connections. This operation, dubbed ‘BERNAMA+,’ was carried out in collaboration with the UMS Campus Security Unit on February 23, 2023. The team identified numerous unauthorized taps and water pipes installed in student hostels and other campus buildings. According to JANS Director Ir. Amarjit Singh, these illegal connections amounted to a loss of RM12,000 per month for JANS. He expressed concern over the widespread problem of water theft in Sabah, which poses a significant threat to the state’s water resources. “Water theft not only deprives legitimate consumers of their fair share of water but also puts strain on our already limited supply,” said Amarjit. “We will continue to crack down on such illegal activities to ensure equitable access to water for all.” UMS Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Taufiq Yap Yun Hin commended the efforts of JANS and the campus security unit. He emphasized the importance of preserving water resources for present and future generations. “As a university, we have a responsibility to promote responsible water usage and discourage illegal practices,” said Prof. Taufiq. “We will work closely with JANS to identify and address any remaining water theft issues on campus.” The dismantled illegal water connections were subsequently sealed, and the responsible parties were issued notices of violation. JANS is urging the public to report any suspected water theft activities to ensure the fair and equitable distribution of water in Sabah.Illegal Water Connections Dismantled in Sabah
Illegal Water Connections Dismantled in Sabah KOTA KINABALU, June 16 (Bernama) — The Sabah State Water Department (JANS) today dismantled 24 illegal connections to the main water transmission line near Kampung Suang Parai, Sepanggar, said Deputy Prime Minister III Datuk Shahelmey Yahya. The illegal connections were located near University Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and were affecting the amount of water flowing into the university’s main reservoir. “JANS has deployed its officers this afternoon to tackle the illegal connection and will continuously monitor the situation until the supplier plan is fully in place in some identified areas,” he said in a statement today. Shahelmey had said on Friday (June 14) that the Sabah Works Department was stabilizing water pressure to ensure stable water supply in all parts of the state. Kampung Suang Parai is also known to have a settlement of squatters. BERNAMA
Twenty-four illegal water connections at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) have been dismantled by the Kota Kinabalu Water Department (JANS) in an operation targeting water theft. According to JANS, the operation was carried out in collaboration with UMS management to address the issue of illegal water consumption on campus. “We identified 24 illegal water connections during the operation. These connections were made directly from the main water pipelines, bypassing the water meters,” said JANS spokesperson Mohd Fauzi Yahya. The spokesperson added that the illegal connections resulted in significant water loss, depriving legitimate users of a reliable water supply. “We urge the public to report any suspicious water-related activities to JANS. Water theft is a serious offense that can affect the water supply for everyone,” said Mohd Fauzi. UMS Vice-Chancellor Datuk ChM Dr Taufiq Yap Yun Hin expressed appreciation to JANS for their efforts in combating water theft on campus. “This operation is a testament to our commitment to ensuring a sustainable and equitable water supply for our staff, students, and the wider community,” said Dr Taufiq. JANS reminded the public that illegal water connections are a violation of the Water Supply (Sabah) Enactment 2003 and can result in legal action. The water department urged consumers to obtain legal water connections and pay their water bills on time to ensure a reliable and efficient water supply.
