KARIMUN -- Access to clean water is a basic necessity, especially during the dry season when water supplies become increasingly limited. In response to these conditions, PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk collaborated with Kodim 0317/TBK to provide drilled water wells through the “Negara Hadir untuk Rakyat” (The State Is Present for the People) program at three locations in Karimun Regency, Riau Islands Province.
The three wells were constructed in Gemuruh Village, Sawang Laut Village, and Kundur Village in West Kundur District. The facilities are expected to help local communities meet their clean water needs while providing long-term benefits for residents in the area.
Jefrizal, Head of Sawang Laut Village, said the well constructed in his area is now being used by approximately 40–50 households living within one neighborhood unit.
According to Jefrizal, the well has greatly helped the community, particularly during the dry season. Previously, residents of Hamlet I, especially those in Neighborhood Units (RT) 03 and 04, often struggled to obtain enough water for their daily needs.
“Currently, around 40–50 households are already benefiting from the well. During the dry season in particular, residents of Hamlet I have difficulty accessing water. Thank God, this well has been extremely helpful to the community,” he said.
He explained that the well was constructed while the community was experiencing the dry season. Once construction was completed, residents immediately began using it to meet their clean water needs.
“The water is clear and is already being used by the community. This has been very helpful because clean water is truly an essential need for our residents,” he said.
For the people of Sawang Laut, the well is more than just physical infrastructure. Easier access to water provides residents with greater security in meeting their daily needs, particularly when other water sources become limited.
Jefrizal expressed his appreciation for PT TIMAH’s support, noting that the company has continued to contribute to Sawang Laut Village through various community empowerment programs over the past several years.
Similarly, Murhalim, Head of Kundur Village, said the well was greatly needed by the community. Previously, residents had to collect water from a source located nearly two kilometers away, in an area situated on a hill.
“Residents used to collect water from a source that was quite far away and located on a hill. The distance was nearly two kilometers, which made it difficult for residents, particularly when they needed water for bathing, washing, and sanitation,” he said.
The well is now used by hundreds of households in Hamlet II. Its availability means residents no longer have to travel long distances to obtain water for their household needs.
Murhalim expressed his appreciation to PT TIMAH and Kodim 0317/TBK for helping provide the facility. According to him, the community has directly experienced the benefits of the well, which addresses one of their most essential basic needs.
“Thank God, the community is already benefiting from this well. It truly meets an important need for residents because water is essential, especially during the dry season,” he said. (*)
