KOTA KINABALU: July 20, 2026 — The Sabah government is implementing two major projects worth more than RM119.12 million to enhance the capacity and reliability of the electricity supply system in Semporna, supporting the growth of tourism, housing, investment and economic activities in the district.
Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam, said the projects involve the construction of a new Main Intake Substation (PMU) in Semporna and a Main Distribution Substation (PPU) to meet the increasing demand for electricity in the district.
He said this in response to a question from Tuan Haji Jamil Hamzah (Bugaya) regarding the status of electricity supply capacity upgrades in Semporna during the Sabah State Legislative Assembly sitting today.
Dr Joachim said the PMU Semporna upgrade project involves the construction of a new 132/33/11kV substation with a capacity of 2 × 45/60MVA under Project T.9188(S) at a cost of RM74.12 million, expected to be completed by October 2027.
The PPU Semporna construction project, estimated at RM45 million, is expected to be completed by 2029 and is currently at the stage of obtaining right-of-way approvals and site acquisition.
“The implementation of these projects aims to reduce the load on the existing PMU Semporna, which is currently operating above firm capacity, and to increase the capacity and reliability of the electricity supply system in Semporna following the growing consumer load,” he said.
He said Sabah Electricity continuously monitors the electricity supply needs in Semporna to ensure system capacity can meet growing demand in line with the development of new hotels and resorts, residential areas and local economic activities.
“Upon completion of both projects, the electricity supply system in Semporna will be more stable and capable of accommodating future increases in demand,” he added.
“The capacity and reliability of Semporna’s electricity supply system will be significantly enhanced. It will not only meet current and future demand growth but also support the rapid development of tourism, investment, housing and economic activities in the Semporna district.”
The implementation of both projects is expected to strengthen Semporna’s electricity supply infrastructure, supporting the district’s continued development as one of Sabah’s key tourist destinations.
