Tan (eighth left), representing the Chief Minister, posing with all distinguished guests after the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the World Plumbing Day Gala Dinner.
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said the Government remains committed to addressing legacy issues such as water and electricity supply, road networks and public amenities in the state.
“The Government gives priority to the security of water supply and infrastructure improvements in the state.
“In fact, through the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan, the wellbeing of the people and human capital development are also emphasised, in addition to the three main thrusts to improve the economy. This is to ensure a better life for the people in the state.
“However, apart from the Government efforts, water management also requires cooperation from various parties including companies, communities and individuals to value water resources, reduce waste and jointly safeguard it for future generations.
“Therefore, let us continue to work together for a better future for Sabah and its people,” he said at the World Plumbing Day celebration at Hakka Hall here Sunday. His speech was read by Assistant Finance Minister Datuk Tan Lee Fatt.
The Chief Minister said the annual event is important in highlighting the role of plumbing in health and environmental protection, while celebrating the expertise and dedication of licenced plumbers around the world.
Hajiji said it is not just a celebration, but a renewal to their commitment to ensure that water management in Sabah is more efficient and sustainable for the wellbeing of all, noting that Sabah is known for its wealth of natural resources but still faces challenges in this regard.
Therefore, he said the importance of pipes and water needs to be expanded to the entire community, including educating young people through various programmes to better understand their importance from a young age.
With such involvement, he believes it can increase awareness among students and youth, encourage them to appreciate the importance of safe sanitation, more responsible water use and be sensitive to the environment.
At the same time, he also called for the Sabah Plumbers Association to collaborate with relevant parties to ensure that the pipes in this state are installed correctly and that monitoring is always carried out to ensure that there are no pipe leaks that lead to water wastage.
He emphasised that this event is not just a celebration but a reaffirmation of the Government’s commitment to ensuring efficient and sustainable water management in Sabah.
While Sabah is rich in natural resources, he acknowledged ongoing challenges in water management and called for greater public awareness, particularly among youth.
He stressed the need for educational programmes to instill responsible water use, sanitation awareness and environmental conservation from an early age.
Additionally, he urged the Sabah Plumbers Association to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure proper pipe installation and continuous monitoring to prevent leaks and water wastage.
Sabah Plumbers Association President Carmen Wong reiterated that water is essential for life, and a reliable plumbing system ensures its safe and consistent distribution to every home.
She emphasised the need to enhance professional skills and training to equip plumbers with the latest technology and expertise.
She also called for stronger collaboration between the industry and Government to advocate for better policies, promote innovation and sustainability in water management, and secure greater government support to develop the industry and improve the livelihoods of plumbing workers.
Wong also highlighted the association’s commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives, including school programs that foster early awareness of water conservation and the plumbing sector’s critical role. She described this as not just a responsibility but an investment in the future, urging all stakeholders to work together to protect water resources and develop the industry with full support from the Government.
Organising Chairperson SP Teo noted that this was the first time the association had celebrated World Plumbing Day, marking a milestone for both the association and Sabah.
He said the event was an opportunity to showcase Sabah’s potential on the global stage, positioning it not only as a destination for natural beauty but also as a hub for innovation in plumbing and sanitation.
Teo emphasised the importance of making World Plumbing Day an annual event that educates and inspires communities about clean water, sanitation and environmental protection.
He called for strong financial support from the Government and industry partners to organise more impactful educational programmes that reach a wider audience, raise awareness and drive meaningful change.
