Despite a multi-million ringgit water treatment plant in the district, some 120 households in two villages in Serian only have supply of potable water for one hour per day.

According to villagers of Kg Rituh Labuan and Kg Rituh Mawang, 90 percent of the roughly 400 voters threw support behind PBB senior leader Roland Sagah as Tarat assemblyperson in the 2011 state polls hoping for a resolution to their water woes.

But three years down the line, they only get tap water between 1 to 2 am.

Disillusioned, the villagers now turn to Bengoh PKR’s division chief Willie Mongin, in hopes that he can air their grouses.

 

Speaking to media, Mongin (right) said that the problem is also faced by villagers in nearby Tarat and Taie where taps also "run completely dry".

"The lack of water not only causes inconvenience to the villagers, but also affects their health as they cannot maintain a high standard of hygiene.

 

"They are very sad and disappointed because 51 years after the formation of Malaysia, their water problems are yet to be resolved," he said.

Water tanks

 

He urged the relevant authorities to immediately solve their water problems by providing them with water tanks, pending the upgrading of water supply to their homes.

He said that they had brought their problems several times to their state representative and the authorities concerned, but it appeared that their cries fell on deaf ears.

 

"Sagah coming from PBB, a party that forms the backbone of the state government should be able to help them.

 

"I am sure he has a great influence in the party. But how come he cannot help them?" he asked.