MELAKA, Aug 1 (Bernama) -- The Melaka government has allocated RM1 million to repair critical water pipelines at Terendak Camp as an immediate measure to address longstanding water supply issues while awaiting the completion of a water reticulation project worth more than RM40 million, scheduled for 2028.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the allocation reflects the state government's commitment, in collaboration with the Terendak Camp management, to resolve the long-standing problem affecting residents.
"This is one of the country's oldest military camps, and naturally many of its facilities require attention. The state government is deeply concerned about the water supply issue and has worked closely with the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) to provide immediate assistance.
"We have allocated RM1 million to repair critical water pipes and provide emergency water storage tanks to ensure residents can continue living comfortably," he said.
He told reporters this after officiating the closing ceremony of the Dua Jiwa Satu Hati Sports Championship and the 2026 Melaka Chief Minister's Cup Uniformed Bodies Sports Championship at Terendak Camp today.
Also present were the State Housing, Local Government, Drainage, Climate Change, and Disaster Management Committee chairman Datuk Rais Yasin, Deputy Army Chief Lieutenant General Datuk Mohamad Suria Mohamad Saad, 3rd Division Commander Major General Sani S. Omar; 10th Brigade (Para) Commander Major General Datuk Khairul Anwar Soib; heads of state and federal departments; and the Terendak Camp community.
Meanwhile, Rais said the allocation was approved to minimise the impact of recent water supply disruptions caused by leaks in external pipelines, which had also affected the camp's water supply.
"We are concerned that the water supply issues would continue if we waited until 2028. Therefore, the Chief Minister approved RM1 million in state funds to repair critical pipelines and carry out road resurfacing works where necessary.
"The works will begin as soon as possible following the approval of the allocation," he said.
Rais added that Syarikat Air Melaka Berhad (SAMB) had also contributed water storage tanks under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, with the tanks to be placed at strategic locations within the camp's residential areas.
"This will provide a temporary water supply whenever disruptions occur while repair works or other remedial measures are being carried out," he said.
Meanwhile, the Dua Jiwa Satu Hati Sports Championship and the 2026 Melaka Chief Minister's Cup Uniformed Bodies Sports Championship attracted more than 6,000 participants across various sporting events.
Rais said that although only in their second edition, both championships have grown significantly and not only strengthen ties among military personnel, uniformed agencies and the public, but also serve as a platform to enhance strategic cooperation between the Melaka government and the Malaysian Armed Forces.
-- BERNAMA