It is true that SESB is in the process of replacing old meters with the new electronic meters. This is part of SESBs Service Improvement Plan to protect customer against fraud and to protect SESB against theft and tampering.

This exercise is conducted Statewide, and we are mobilizing our resources as fast as we can to expedite this transition period.

We however deny that, this problems is due to lack of keenness on our part to provide the 3 phase meters because of insufficient power. SESB is obliged by law to provide the necessary installation equipment and power supply. But in the case of power supply it is subjected to generation capacity. To ensure system stability and security, we have to conduct Demand Side Management and/or load-shedding from time to time. Hence, SESBs persistent effort to increase the power generation capacity in Sabah to meet the growth in customer demand.

On the issue of huge deposit, there is clearly a misunderstanding on this matter. Deposits are requested based on 2 months usage calculation and it is refundable. What was meant by Mr. Lau could relate to the issue of Customer Capital Contribution, this is a one off payment and not refundable. This is stated under the Law (Akta Bekalan Letrik) to allow SESB to recover any cost incurred for such installation, this is so as these costs are not covered under the tariff structure. We emphatize with our valued customer encountering these problems, and we will strive to address the issues on customer dissatisfaction steadfastly.