TAWAU: The water crisis on Pulau Sebatik has reached a critical stage, with reservoir levels at Empangan Air Wallace Bay (EAWB) dropping to just 0.9 metres, prompting intensified distribution of clean water aid to residents.
Kalabakan MP Datuk Andi Muhammad Suryady Bandy said a proposal has been submitted to the State Government via the Tawau District Disaster Management Committee to consider cloud seeding in Sebatik.
He said the prolonged dry season and low rainfall have placed pressure on efforts to meet residents’ water needs, noting the reservoir relies entirely on rainwater.
Andi said deepening the reservoir is urgently needed but would cost about RM40 million, while temporary measures include distributing 48,000 bottles of mineral water and utilising tube wells producing up to 1,000 litres per hour.
He said the situation remains under control through water rationing, alternative sources and community initiatives, although supply could last only about seven days without rationing.
He added that sediment and sludge have reduced the reservoir depth from 17 metres to five metres, while some of the 30 tube wells built in 2024 are now damaged and require maintenance.
He said short-term measures include water distribution, tankers and mobile treatment plants, while long-term plans involve a reservoir deepening project and a proposed new storage pond pending approval.
