RM70.6 million road upgrade project in Sabah to be completed in two years

Papar, Sabah – A significant road upgrade project valued at RM70.6 million is underway to tackle critical traffic congestion along Jalan Lok Kawi in Sabah, Malaysia. The project, aimed at improving the road from Sabindo Roundabout to Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Kinarut, is scheduled for completion within two years. Minister of Works Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the project, part of the Third Rolling Plan (RP3) under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12), commenced in March. He assured that the Ministry of Works (KKR), Malaysian Public Works Department (JKR Malaysia), and Sabah JKR would closely monitor its progress to ensure it stays on schedule. "This project is very important to the residents in this area," Alexander remarked during the groundbreaking ceremony. The upgrade involves widening a 1.5-kilometer section of the road from two lanes to a four-lane dual carriageway, adhering to JKR U5 standards. Of the total cost, RM48 million is allocated for construction, RM17 million for land acquisition and compensation, and approximately RM960,000 for land acquisition processes. "We want to ensure that all affected parties receive fair compensation without suffering losses," Alexander added, noting that 81 land lots and premises are involved. The project is deemed essential as the current daily traffic volume on the route reaches about 27,000 vehicles, pushing the road's service level to 'F,' the most critical stage. In addition to upgrading the road and three roundabouts into signalized intersections, the project includes a covered pedestrian bridge to the school, three bus stops, two motorcycle shelters, and new street lighting and drainage systems. Datuk Armizan Mohd. Ali, Member of Parliament for Papar, expressed that the project is highly anticipated by residents. He noted that peak hour travel times, which should take 45 minutes, currently extend to nearly three hours due to congestion. The Ministry of Works has also committed to initiating the tender process for the second component of the project, which involves a bypass.

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This project is very important to the residents in this area.