NEWS & UPDATE
Sarawak Energy Reminds Contractors: Call Before You Dig to Avoid Power Outages and Safety Risks
KUCHING
10 JANUARY 2025
Sarawak Energy reminds all contractors to consult with the utility provider before commencing excavation works to avoid damaging underground cables and disrupting power supply.
On 9 January, excavation works by a public infrastructure project contractor caused a power outage that affected multiple locations, including a hotel and residential properties in the vicinity of the Kuching International Airport and Stampin area. The outage lasted for over an hour.
Sarawak Energy’s technical team responded immediately after a power trip was reported at 11.32am. Partial supply was restored by 11.45am, with full restoration completed at 12.48pm.
Effendy Syaiful Abdullah, Sarawak Energy’s Regional Manager for the Western Region, emphasised the importance of consulting with Sarawak Energy to prevent such incidents and ensure public safety.
“We have repeatedly reminded third-party contractors to consult us before starting any excavation works to identify underground cables. Unfortunately, despite numerous reminders, incidents like this continue to happen, causing unnecessary inconvenience to customers and avoidable disruptions to power supply,” said Effendy.
He highlighted the dangers of working near live electrical facilities and the importance of consulting Sarawak Energy beforehand.
“Live electrical facilities are dangerous and contact with live cables can cause serious injuries or fatalities. We urge all contractors to remember: Call Before You Dig to locate underground cables. This helps avoid disruptions, prevents damage and ensures the safety of workers and the public,” said Effendy.
Sarawak Energy reiterates its commitment to public safety and infrastructure protection, warning that legal action would be taken against those responsible for damaging its facilities.
Contractors can contact Sarawak Energy’s 24/7 Customer Care Centre at 1-300-88-3111 or email customercare@sarawakenergy.com for technical advice regarding works near electrical infrastructure.
Close-up of the underground cable damaged during excavation works
The red arrow indicating the location of the underground cable damaged during excavation works at the public infrastructure project near the Kuching Airport.