Sarawak Energy uncovers theft of electricity at the premises of a major supermarket in Miri

MIRI, Dec 29 2025:  Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) has uncovered a third case involving the premises of a major supermarket chain in Miri City, following earlier incidents detected at the premises of its outlets in Siburan and Serian.

Caption: Direct tapping cables uncovered following the removal of the gypsum board, revealing connections to the first floor of the premises. 

SEB, in a statement today, said an illegal direct tapping of electricity using the same method was identified at the premises of the Miri’s outlet in the previous offences.

“The illegal connection resulted in an estimated loss of RM7,300 per month,” it said, adding that the electricity theft was discovered by Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), its retail and operations arm.

“Investigations found that cables were illegally tapped directly from the incoming mains at the five-foot way.

“The cables were concealed above the ceiling and covered with cable trunks in several areas of the outlet to avoid detection.

“During the operation, SESCO’s meter inspection team removed sectors of the gypsum ceiling

to expose the illegal connections before dismantling and seizing all direct tapping cables.

“Investigations have commenced under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries penalties of up to RM200,000 in fines and/or imprisonment for up to five years, or both.

“Despite electricity tariffs in Sarawak being among the most competitive in the region, some business operators continue to engage in electricity theft.

“Unauthorised electricity connections that do not comply with SESCO’s safety standards are illegal and pose serious risks, including electrocution, fire hazards, damage to electrical equipment and

potential loss of life.

“Such illegal connections also place strain on the power system, increasing the risk of supply disruptions that cause unnecessary inconvenience to neighbouring premises,”  SEB said.

It also said that it is actively inspecting relevant supermarket chains and other premises

suspected of power theft as ongoing enforcement efforts.

“SESCO’s inspection teams are equipped with the expertise and tools to effectively detect concealed and unauthorised connections, including complex setups designed to avoid detection,” it stressed.

SEB said members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected electricity theft to Sarawak

Energy’s Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111 or via email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com.

It added all reports will be treated with strict confidentiality.