Saratok seeks affordable housing, new water treatment plant

RESIDENTS in 14 villages around Saratok town face a shortage of suitable land to build their homes, prompting calls for the government to assess land availability and develop affordable housing.

Kalaka assemblyman, Mohamad Duri said owning a home was both a dream and a basic necessity for many families, but the lack of suitable land had made it difficult for them to build their own homes.

He urged the government to consider developing low-cost or affordable housing in Saratok to assist low- and middle-income groups.

“This need involves not only local residents but also those working in Saratok who face difficulties finding suitable homes within their financial means.

“I hope the government will assess the availability of government land, site suitability, housing demand and residents’ affordability to ensure that proper planning can be carried out,” he raised the issue when debating the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.

On water supply, Mohamad highlighted disruptions affecting residents in Kaba, Kali Kaba, Lubok Nibong, Perpat and Kampung Paloh when the Lichok Water Treatment Plant could not operate optimally during the prolonged drought last September.

The dry weather caused raw water levels to drop, affecting water extraction for treatment and distribution.

He said addressing the issue required more than increasing treatment plant capacity, as sufficient raw water sources and a resilient supply system were also essential.

“In this regard, I urge the Ministry of Utility, through the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), to conduct a feasibility study on the construction of a water treatment plant in the Lubok Nibong area using water from the Krian River.

“I hope this proposal will be thoroughly assessed, including in terms of water source capacity, implementation costs, community needs and technical feasibility,” he said.