Tuaran: KDM Kiulu Vice Chief, Joluin Joiruh, has voiced strong dissatisfaction over the prolonged neglect of a damaged section of the Tamparuli-Kiulu road at Km 2.45, criticizing government agencies and local leaders for failing to address the issue despite repeated concerns from the community.
Joluin, who is also a resident of Kampung Tompinahaton, described the road as a vital lifeline for thousands of local residents.
He condemned the lack of proactive measures, stating that authorities only respond after issues have significantly worsened.
“Currently, we only react when problems arise, instead of taking proactive measures beforehand,” Joluin said in a recent social media post.
Despite the presence of multiple leaders from the ruling coalition in the area, Joluin said no concrete efforts have been made to push for timely repairs or long-term infrastructure solutions.
He called on the relevant authorities to act with greater urgency and integrity, particularly in accelerating the repair of the damaged slope and road.
“Every time a road is damaged, the contractor is unfairly blamed or used as a scapegoat. The contractor performs the work according to the specified instructions. The real question is, why it takes years to address these issues?” he said.
While acknowledging that the original road damage was caused by a natural disaster, Joluin said it is the prolonged inaction that continues to frustrate the local population.
“The community is frustrated because we have been aware of the road’s deterioration for years, yet we only respond when it becomes severely damaged or impassable,” he added. “Our quick actions seem to seek recognition, which is unnecessary.”
He also urged political leaders not to exploit the situation for personal gain, cautioning against using superficial statements to garner public support.
“Why was this not addressed sooner? It is incredibly disappointing. This is not the behaviour expected from a leader; it merely takes advantage of the community’s hardships,” Joluin said.
The road closure has forced residents, particularly those living closer to Tamparuli, to take the longer Tamparuli-Telipok-Kiulu route, resulting in added travel time and inconvenience.
As a temporary solution, Joluin called for the immediate construction of an alternative access route while permanent repairs are underway.
