Warisan Penampang wants the Sabah Water Department (JANS) to come clean on the real cause of Penampang’s water woes instead of penalising consumers with a pump ban.

The party said the district’s water supply comes from Babagon Dam and the Moyog River, meaning resource shortages are not the issue.

Warisan Kepayan branch chairman Pritchard Gumbaris said enforcement under Section 56 of the Sabah Water Supply Enactment 2022 would only worsen public hardship.

“We need transparency. What is causing the shortage? Is the supply running at full capacity or at a reduced level?” he said.

He said widespread low pressure and daily rationing indicate a deeper problem that authorities must address.

Pritchard questioned whether aging infrastructure or faulty equipment was to blame, calling for clarity on maintenance and upgrade plans.

He also warned that unplanned development could be straining supply, making urgent action necessary.

“JANS must provide data on current water consumption in Penampang and disclose whether demand exceeds supply,” he said.

Warisan has called for a town hall meeting with the local council and JANS to update residents. – March 6, 2025