KOTA SAMARAHAN, Oct 28 2026: Utility and Telecommunication Minister Julaihi Narawi has expressed his deep disappointment over the continued cases of vandalism reported across the state.
He said a total of 6,328 cases of vandalism involving utility and telecommunication facilities were recorded in Sarawak from 2023 to the second quarter of 2026, resulting in estimated losses of RM48.43 million.
He said such activities have also disrupted service delivery to consumers, as damage to public assets incurred substantial repair and equipment replacement costs.
"Restoration work, which takes time, also leads to service disruptions, affecting the reputation of utility and telecommunication agencies.
"At the same time, the reputation of these agencies is further affected by repeated service disruptions, even though they themselves are victims of vandalism," he said at the launch the 2026 Samarahan Division-level Vandalism Prevention Programme today.
Julaihi said Samarahan Division recorded 308 cases during the same period, with estimated losses reaching RM1.54 million.
He said among the facilities frequently targeted were equipment at water treatment plants, water meters, fire hydrants, transformers, electrical cables, streetlights and earthing components.
In the telecommunications sector, Julaihi said vulnerable assets include transmission equipment at telecommunication towers, batteries and cables.
He said efforts to combat vandalism were also strengthened through the implementation of Ops Lusuh by the police together with related agencies to monitor the premises of second-hand goods and curb the sale of utility equipment believed to be stolen.
He called on the public to report any suspicious activity to the authorities to help protect utility and telecommunications facilities from further acts of vandalism.
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