Kota Kinabalu: The State and Federal Governments were urged to take more proactive and holistic steps in resolving pressing infrastructure issues in Keningau, particularly in Liawan constituency.
Liawan Assemblyman Datuk Anuar Ayub said the worsening traffic congestion in Keningau has begun to impact local residents and businesses.
He urged the Ministry concerned to clarify the delay in completing the Sungai Liawan Bridge in Kampung Semalang, which was initially expected to be completed by May but is now only anticipated by August.
“This bridge provides an alternative route that can help ease traffic congestion. Any delay in this project not only burdens the people but also affects local economic growth,” he said when debating in support of the government policy speech during the State Legislative Assembly sitting.
Anuar also questioned the status of the proposed Keningau relief road project, which is expected to further reduce traffic in the area. He suggested that existing routes such as Jalan Tarapa, Jalan Gaulan, Jalan Batu 27 and Jalan Sigapon be upgraded and paved, given their potential to serve as alternative roads.
He stressed the need for both short- and long-term solutions, including widening urban roads to cope with increasing vehicle volume and formulating comprehensive infrastructure plans.
Anuar also raised the issue of agricultural roads that do not fall under Government or Public Works Department (JKR) concession lists, making them difficult to maintain.
“Farmers face challenges transporting their produce due to poor road conditions. These roads should be included in infrastructure planning to support the local agricultural economy,” he said.
Touching on recent flash floods caused by heavy rains in February, March and again recently, Anuar highlighted serious damage to infrastructure and properties in rural villages, particularly in Kampung Kauran.
He urged for urgent river embankment works, drainage improvements and consistent monitoring in high-risk flood zones.
“The Government must act comprehensively to prevent such flooding from recurring. We also need better disaster preparedness, such as ensuring that Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS) meet required standards,” he added.
Anuar revealed that flood victims were forced to take shelter in village leaders’ homes due to PPS buildings being unsuitable.
He proposed that District Offices be equipped with basic amenities like partition blocks, mattresses and blankets to better support evacuees.
He also raised the poor condition of many village roads in Liawan that have exceeded their lifespan and now pose safety risks. He criticised the current patching method using crushed stones as unsustainable and insufficient for long-term road use.
“The Government must repave these roads using durable tar layers and include them in regular maintenance plans to ensure safety and comfort for users, especially farmers, schoolchildren and small traders,” stressed Anuar.
He also drew attention to access roads leading to schools such as SK Ulu Senagang and SK Gaulan that remain gravel roads, making travel difficult. He appealed to both Federal and State Governments to prioritise paving these routes to ensure students’ access to education.
Anuar reminded fellow elected representatives not to break the trust given by the people through empty promises.
“The people expect more than just explanations. They want concrete action and real change. Let us prove that the voices of the rakyat brought to this hall are voices that are respected and fought for,” he said.
He also took the opportunity to humbly apologise to his constituents if his service had not met their expectations.
“I have done my best within my capacity and ultimately, I surrender everything to Allah the Almighty,” he said, wishing all Sabahans a Happy Hari Raya Aidilfitri and a joyful Kaamatan Festival and hope that Sabah would continue to prosper in peace, health and unity.