Kota Kinabalu: Tuaran MP Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau is disappointed that the Federal Economy Ministry has not approved the long-delayed upgrade of the Kampung Togop-Poturidong road in Kiulu.
Madius expressed his frustration in the Dewan Rakyat, questioning the government’s failure to implement the road upgrade, which was announced by the former Prime Minister in 2018.
During the question-and-answer session, Madius sought clarification from the Rural and Regional Development Ministry (KKDW) on the project’s status.
“Why has the ministry yet to implement the upgrade of the Kampung Togop-Hamad-Tomis Baru-Kitapol-Tibabar-Poturidong road, despite its approval being announced by the former Prime Minister during his visit to Kiulu on March 22, 2018, with an allocation of RM100 million?
“What is the current status of this approval, and what initiatives is KKDW taking to upgrade this road?” he asked.
In a written response, KKDW revealed that it had applied to the Tamparuli-Togop-Hamad-Kitapol-Tibabar road upgrade under the Fifth Rolling Plan (RP5) of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) for 2025.
“The project scope includes upgrading 25 kilometres of road to PWD R2 specifications and constructing three bridges. “However, the Economy Ministry did not approve the application,” the ministry stated.
Madius also raised concerns over the delayed construction and upgrade of the Pekan Nabalu-Giuk-Sinulihan-Pahu Kiulu road, emphasising its importance to the local community.
“This road is a crucial route for residents and students travelling to SMK Nabalu, which is currently under construction at a new site,” he said.
KKDW confirmed that it had also applied for the Sinulihan Pahu-Giuk Nadau-Nabalu road upgrade under RP5 of 12MP for 2025.
“This project’s scope involves upgrading 16 kilometres of road to PWD R2 specifications and constructing one bridge. “However, this application was also not approved by the Economy Ministry,” KKDW added.
The ministry further clarified that the planning and implementation of rural road projects, including those in Sabah, are under the jurisdiction of state governments.
“The State Government, through the State Economic Planning Unit (Upen), submits a priority list of rural road projects to the ministry. “KKDW then forwards these applications to the Economy Ministry for approval in each Rolling Plan,” it explained.
Madius lamented the prolonged delay, highlighting the challenges faced by Tuaran residents due to poor road infrastructure.
“The people have waited far too long for these roads to be upgraded, which would not only ease travel but also facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce to nearby towns and markets.
“Additionally, these roads serve as key routes for parents sending their children to school. “Nevertheless, I remain persistent. I have contacted the Tuaran PWD Office and the Sabah Upen Director to ensure these road upgrade applications are prioritised.
“I sincerely hope that this time, the Economy Ministry will approve the proposals, as good road infrastructure is a vital factor in eradicating poverty,” he said.
