NEWS & UPDATES

Sarawak Energy Warns of the Dangers of Vandalism at Transmission Tower

KUCHING

10 JUNE 2024

Sarawak Energy has reported a significant rise in metal theft incidents, with numerous instances of severe vandalism, cutting, and theft of Extra High Voltage (EHV) tower components along the Bakun and Murum roads.

These transmission towers in the Bintulu division are part of the State Power Grid, transmitting electricity from hydropower plants to Sarawak’s cities, towns and villages. In addition to safety threats, vandalised and damaged towers compromise Sarawak’s electricity supply reliability.

Despite increased patrols and intensified cooperation with law enforcement to secure the divisions’ electricity supply infrastructure, there has been a surge in this criminal activity prompting Chief Executive Officer for Sarawak Energy's utility arm, Syarikat SESCO Berhad Lau Kim Swee to express his concern regarding the spike in theft.

"It is deeply troubling to see the boldness of vandals, who are now targeting our EHV Transmission Towers for quick financial gains. The transmission line network is vital to Sarawak's electricity supply. Any compromise to these towers' structural integrity could potentially lead to significant supply interruptions, impacting public safety and disrupting daily activities and business operations throughout the region," said Lau.

In response to these challenges, Sarawak Energy is working closely with the authorities to conduct joint operations, which include inspections at recycling centres and monitoring the trade of stolen copper cables.

Recent collaborative efforts with the Bintulu Police, through their operations have led to successful raids and the recovery of stolen materials from second-hand dealers.

Under Section 33(9) of the Electricity Ordinance, those guilty of wilfully or negligently causing the fall of or damage to any electricity supply line will be penalised with a fine of RM50,000, or five-year imprisonment, or both.

Sarawak Energy remains committed to investing in modern technology, backup systems and enhancing its infrastructure to ensure the efficiency and reliability of its power network. SESCO’s technical teams are also on constant standby and ready for prompt restoration in the event of supply interruptions.

The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities to Sarawak Energy's 24-hour Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111 or via email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com with the assurance of utmost confidentiality.

Sarawak Energy and Bintulu Police working together in curbing vandalism