Sarawak Looks to Export Treated Water as a New Economic Opportunity

Sarawak could soon add treated water to its list of export commodities as the state looks to diversify its economy and create new sources of revenue. Already known for exporting hydroelectric power to neighbouring regions, the state government is now studying the possibility of supplying treated water across its borders once domestic water needs have been fully met.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg recently revealed that discussions are underway to export treated water to a neighbouring country, although he did not disclose which nation is involved. Speaking at the opening of the Borneo International Water & Wastewater Exhibition in Kuching, the premier said water could become another valuable resource capable of generating long-term income for the state.

"There is an effort to develop water as another export commodity for Sarawak. It will provide us with additional income," he said.

Building on Sarawak's Natural Advantage

Sarawak is home to one of Malaysia's largest river networks, giving it abundant freshwater resources compared to many parts of the region. Combined with modern water treatment technology, the state believes it has the capacity to produce treated water not only for local consumption but also for potential export.

However, Abang Johari stressed that exports would only begin after Sarawak achieves its goal of providing clean water to its entire population. The state is targeting 100% clean water coverage by 2030, ensuring that both urban and rural communities have reliable access before any surplus water is supplied overseas.

At present, Sarawak's overall treated water coverage stands at 86.1%, while coverage in rural areas has reached approximately 71.9%. Although significant progress has been made, extending water infrastructure to remote communities remains one of the government's top priorities.

Following the Success of Electricity Exports

The proposal follows Sarawak's successful strategy of exporting renewable hydroelectric power.Today, the state already supplies electricity to Pontianak in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, as well as Sabah, using electricity generated from its hydroelectric dams.

Sarawak Energy is also working on plans to expand electricity exports even further. Future projects include supplying power to Brunei, as well as transmitting hydro-generated electricity to Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia through submarine power cables.The move into treated water exports would represent another step in transforming Sarawak into a regional supplier of essential resources.

Water Becoming a Strategic Resource

Abang Johari noted that water is increasingly being viewed as a strategic commodity worldwide.As climate change, population growth, and industrial development place greater pressure on freshwater supplies, access to clean and reliable water has become an important factor for governments and businesses alike.

He said modern investors no longer look only at energy availability and transport connectivity when deciding where to invest. Long-term water security has also become a major consideration, especially for industries such as manufacturing, technology, and data centres that require stable water supplies for daily operations.

Sarawak believes its abundant natural water resources could become a competitive advantage in attracting future investments while supporting regional cooperation.According to the premier, a responsible cross-border water supply could create mutual economic benefits, provided it is technically feasible, environmentally sustainable, and supported by sound scientific assessments.

Massive Investments in Water Infrastructure

To prepare for future demand, Sarawak has been investing heavily in upgrading its water infrastructure through the Sarawak Water Supply Masterplan and the Sarawak Water Grid.The ambitious project aims to create a fully connected statewide water distribution network stretching from southern to northern Sarawak.

Once completed, the project will include approximately 2,800 kilometres of pipelines and the construction or upgrading of 21 major water treatment plants.The integrated system is designed to improve water reliability, reduce supply disruptions, and strengthen long-term water security across the state.

In addition to expanding infrastructure, the government is also focusing on reducing non-revenue water treated water that is lost through pipe leaks, theft, or system inefficiencies before reaching consumers.Improving operational efficiency will help maximise existing water resources while reducing unnecessary losses.

Reaching Remote Communities

While the Water Grid will serve the most populated areas, Sarawak is also addressing the needs of communities located in isolated regions where conventional infrastructure is difficult to build. This is being achieved through the Sarawak Alternative Water Supply (SAWAS) programme.

SAWAS uses decentralised technologies such as solar-powered water systems and gravity-fed supply systems to deliver clean water to remote villages and longhouses that cannot easily be connected to the main pipeline network.

So far, the programme has provided clean water to approximately 2,600 households across 79 villages and longhouses.The next phase aims to expand coverage to another 1,300 villages and longhouses, bringing safe drinking water to thousands more rural residents.

Opportunities and Challenges Ahead

While exporting treated water could become a valuable new revenue stream for Sarawak, the proposal will require careful planning before becoming a reality.Large-scale water exports involve significant engineering challenges, including treatment capacity, storage, pipeline infrastructure, and long-term supply management. Environmental sustainability will also play a critical role, ensuring that local ecosystems and future water needs are not compromised.

Climate resilience is another important consideration as changing rainfall patterns could affect future water availability. Despite these challenges, Sarawak appears committed to balancing economic development with responsible resource management.

If the state succeeds in achieving universal clean water access while maintaining abundant water reserves, treated water could eventually become another important export alongside renewable electricity.

As countries across Asia place increasing emphasis on water security, Sarawak's rich natural resources and ongoing infrastructure investments could position it as a reliable regional supplier in the years ahead.