Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor cast a shadow over Chinese New Year celebrations in Sandakan when he lashed out at two water concessionaires for failing to meet their supply commitments.

Hajiji did not hold back, alleging possible sabotage and warning that action would be taken against any company found responsible for the disruptions when some three thousand people gathered at the Yu Yuan Hall for the merry-making here on Wednesday. 

“Two concessionaires, which are supposed to supply the maximum amount requested, are only providing partial supply due to certain issues. I will summon them and the Water Department director to resolve this matter.

“I don’t want any sabotage in Sabah’s water management, including in Sandakan. If there are, as Chief Minister, I will take action against them,” he said.

The ongoing crisis has left Sandakan residents facing constant water rationing.

Hajiji dismissed opposition claims that his Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government was to blame, insisting the issue had persisted for years.

He assured that the state was working on a solution to stabilise Sandakan’s water supply and prevent further disruptions. – January 29, 2025.