NEWS & UPDATE

KUCHING
28 OCTOBER 2025

Sarawak Energy, through its operations arm, Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), in collaboration with the Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM), recently uncovered a case of repeated electricity theft at a premise in Jalan Tondong, Kuching, suspected to be involved in online gambling activities disguised as a 24-hour coffee shop.

Further investigation by SESCO revealed that the premise’s power supply had been disconnected several times in the past for unauthorised electricity use. Despite these enforcement actions, the illegal operations continued, prompting a joint raid operation involving SESCO’s technical team and the police. During the raid, two individuals were caught in the act of attempting to illegally reconnect the electricity supply.

An on-site inspection revealed that the electricity supply had been illegally restored using direct tapping cables hidden above the ceiling along the five-foot way, bypassing the meter. These unauthorised connections not only constitute a criminal offence but also pose severe safety risks to the public and nearby businesses. All illegal wiring was immediately dismantled and confiscated and a police report was lodged for investigation under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance. Upon conviction, offenders may be fined up to RM200,000 and/or imprisoned for up to five years.

Electricity theft remains a major concern as it undermines supply reliability and public safety. Illegal connections linked to online gambling and cryptocurrency mining operations have become increasingly sophisticated, often overloading the system and causing voltage fluctuations or power disruptions to consumers. These setups, which use non-standard and hazardous wiring, can cause fires, damage electrical appliances and endanger lives. In this case, the risk was heightened as the exposed tapping cables were within public reach, creating risks of electrocution.

Sarawak Energy remains steadfast in its efforts to protect the integrity of the electricity supply system and continues to work closely with enforcement agencies, including the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) Sarawak, PDRM and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), to identify and prosecute offenders. Beyond enforcement, SESCO also collaborates with media, associations and community groups to raise awareness of the legal, financial and safety consequences of electricity theft.

To strengthen its enforcement capabilities, SESCO’s meter inspection teams undergo continuous technical training to detect evolving theft methods, supported by ongoing investments in advanced detection technologies and real-time monitoring systems. These initiatives form part of Sarawak Energy’s broader efforts to maintain a safe and reliable and power supply for all customers.

Property owners are reminded to transfer electricity accounts to their tenants when renting out properties to ensure proper accountability and to avoid potential legal implications if illegal activities are detected on their premises. Warning signs of electricity theft may include unusually low electricity bills or the presence of suspicious or non-standard wiring.

Members of the public are encouraged to help safeguard the electricity system by reporting any suspected cases of electricity theft. Reports can be made anonymously through the Sarawak Energy Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111 or via email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality.

Direct tapping cables (red arrow) connected to the incoming mains supply.

Two suspects (seated at left) apprehended by the police during the operation.