Kota Kinabalu, March 1 – Datuk Wong Hong Jun, Vice President of Parti Warisan, has called on Sabah's Finance Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun and Public Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya to ensure full transparency regarding the controversial RM1.5 billion water supply concession project in Sabah. He emphasized the need for complete disclosure and accountability.

In a press statement released today, Wong highlighted that he first raised concerns about this issue during the State Assembly session in November last year. He expressed unease over the lack of transparency surrounding the privatization of this critical project, which is essential to public welfare. He described it as a potential "Sabah Watergate" scandal. With further corroborating documents obtained since then, Wong felt compelled to revisit the matter.

Lack of Transparency in the Tender Process

“This project directly impacts the public’s access to clean water. The absence of an open tender process is a betrayal of public trust,” Wong stated.

He underscored the risks associated with the project and questioned the credentials of Tegas Potensi Sdn Bhd, which is collaborating with WSO Sdn Bhd.

“Why was such a massive project not awarded through an open tender process to select a more capable company? This raises suspicions of a deliberate scheme to enrich cronies at the expense of public interest,” he added.

Key Figures Linked to Past Scandals

Wong, who is also the Tanjung Aru State Assemblyman, pointed out that key individuals involved in this project are linked to the infamous "Sabah Watergate" corruption scandal. This raises concerns about whether past corruption practices might be repeated.

He specifically criticized Sabah Credit Corporation (SCC) for its involvement in financing contractors with no proven track record in water management. Wong described this as an irresponsible misuse of state funds.

“Official documents clearly show that SCC CEO participated in meetings related to this project (refer to attendance list item no.18), contradicting Masidi’s claim in last November’s State Assembly that SCC was not involved,” Wong revealed.

He accused the authorities of attempting to cover up the truth and demanded that the state government immediately halt the transaction while disclosing all relevant documents.

“The people of Sabah deserve a government that does not secretly negotiate multi-billion-ringgit contracts with entities suspected of corruption. We demand answers from Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Masidi, and Shahelmey: Who stands to benefit from this deal, and why has the public been kept in the dark?” Wong questioned.

Potential Long-Term Burden on Sabahans

Wong warned that mismanagement of this project could lead to skyrocketing water tariffs, burdening Sabahans for decades. He stressed that Parti Warisan would not allow basic necessities like water supply to be exploited for personal gain at the expense of public welfare.

“This is a gamble with people’s fundamental needs solely for the benefit of a select few,” he concluded.