Kuching:The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) has been allotted RM5.33 billion under Budget 2027. This funding aims to bolster water and energy infrastructure, mitigate flood risks, and enhance energy efficiency.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof stated that the allocation will ensure a clean water supply, improve the resilience of essential infrastructure, and promote the use of clean energy. Six Flood Mitigation Plan (RTB) projects costing RM336 million have been completed, with 82 more ongoing, including the Kuching City RTB Phase 2, the Sungai Golok Integrated River Basin Development Project (PLSB) Phase 2 in Kelantan, and the Sungai Kemaman PLSB in Terengganu.

In Kelantan, the Lebir Dam Project is poised to reduce flood risks for 320,000 residents and provide 337 million liters of raw water daily to 353,222 people. The state will also see increased water supply through the construction of the Machang Water Treatment Plant and the replacement of aging pipes.

Fadillah, who also serves as the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, announced that Phase 2 of the Non-Revenue Water Reduction Programme, valued at RM2.5 billion, will replace 1,900 kilometers of critical aging pipes. Additionally, public sewerage systems on Tuba Island, Langkawi, Redang Island, and Tioman Island are set for immediate upgrades.

To enhance inter-state water supply, a 40-year Bulk Water Supply Agreement between Perak and Penang has been signed, alongside plans for a Regional Sewage Treatment Plant and Sewerage Pipeline Network in Kuala Terengganu.

In the energy sector, the government has increased the electricity bill protection threshold from 600 to 800 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month, benefiting over eight million domestic consumers. In Sabah, RM204 million will be spent on installing STATCOM systems at Dam Road and Segaliud Main Intake Substations, and the Southern Link Transmission Line project will continue to ensure stable electricity supply.

Budget 2027 also includes RM1.5 billion for solar park development on government buildings. It allocates a 150 megawatts (MW) capacity under the Large Scale Solar (LSS) 6 project for Bumiputera companies. Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) will invest RM15 billion to reinforce the national grid, while UEM Lestra receives RM1 billion for energy storage at Kuala Lumpur International Airport and a hybrid energy project in Johor.

The Retirement Fund Incorporated (KWAP) Climate Fund, worth RM1 billion, will support green projects, and the NUR MADANI program will offer rebates up to RM200 for energy-efficient air conditioners and refrigerators. PETRONAS and TNB's participation in the ASEAN Power Grid aims to enhance energy security and regional cooperation.

For rural development, TNB and telecom companies will collaborate with the government to expedite electricity supply and expand Internet coverage through pooled funds and corporate social responsibility contributions.

Sabah and Sarawak are set to benefit from the MADANI Government's focus in Budget 2027, receiving RM18.7 billion and RM16.2 billion, respectively, for basic amenities, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Initiatives include an RM1.5 billion interim Special Grant under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), almost RM1.3 billion for upgrading 682 dilapidated schools, and RM600 million for electricity supply in Sabah.

Fadillah expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for presenting Budget 2027, themed 'Reaching for the Skies, While Anchored on Our Values', emphasizing development that balances human values and the people's needs. He emphasized that for the MADANI Government, development is about ensuring better amenities and opportunities for the people.