Amend Electricity Ordinance to protect new tenants, Pujut rep tells DUN
Yii says Sarawak Energy currently has the authority to reject electricity supply applications from new occupants if there are outstanding bills left by previous owners or tenants. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (May 23): Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii Siew Sang has called on the Sarawak government to amend the Electricity Ordinance to enhance service delivery and protect the interests of consumers.
Speaking during the debate on the Motion of Appreciation for the Yang di-Pertua Negeri's speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) today, Yii highlighted an issue affecting new tenants and homeowners.
He pointed out that Sarawak Energy Berhad (Sarawak Energy) currently has the authority to reject electricity supply applications from new occupants if there are outstanding bills left by previous owners or tenants.
'This situation creates difficulties for many homeowners and new tenants who have no connection to the previous occupants, and it is unfair for someone to bear another person's debt.
'I urge for this ordinance to be amended so that if a new applicant can provide proof, such as a tenancy agreement or a statutory declaration, showing they have no ties to the defaulter, then Sarawak Energy should allow the reconnection of electricity supply,' he said.
He also recommended the introduction of prepaid electricity meters, particularly for rental properties, saying the system offers several advantages.
These include preventing arrears through upfront credit payments, reducing disputes between landlords, tenants, and Sarawak Energy, and encouraging responsible electricity usage.
'Most importantly, prepaid meters are more tamper-resistant and help reduce electricity theft and losses to Sarawak Energy,' he added.
On a separate note, Yii raised concerns over delays and high costs faced by new entrepreneurs in Miri in obtaining piped gas connections from Sarawak Gas Distribution Sdn Bhd (SGD), a subsidiary of Petros.
'Applications currently go through multiple stages without clear guidelines or defined timelines.
'This can cause delays in operations, financial losses, and in some cases, the cancellation of business plans,' he said.
To address this, Yii urged the relevant ministry and SGD to review the application process and introduce a fast-track mechanism for commercial users, including installation incentives for SMEs.
'We have successfully gained control over our gas resources, but that success must be translated into tangible benefits for the people and local entrepreneurs,' he said. adam yii DUN electricity bill Electricity Ordinance Sarawak Energy
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