PETALING JAYA: The feasibility study on the proposed Trans-Borneo Railway project linking Sabah and Sarawak to Indonesia will be completed in August 2025.
In a written parliamentary reply, transport minister Loke Siew Fook said the proposal was in the final evaluation phase.
“The study is expected to commence in August 2024 and will take 12 months to conclude, with the projected completion date set for August 2025,” he said.
Loke was responding to Shafizan Kepli (GPS-Batang Lupar), who asked for a status update on the feasibility study and about the government’s commitment to see through the implementation of the project.
SPONSORED CONTENT Shell awards Sabah LiveWIRE winners Kota Kinabalu: Shell has awarded five enterprises as the state winners of Shell LiveWIRE Malaysia 2024, following the Sabah state finals held at Plaza Shell in Kota Kinabalu. . Read more Loke said the proposed project was expected to enhance connectivity and boost logistics, particularly with Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara.
In October last year, Loke said Sarawak had requested for a feasibility study to be done and his ministry had also requested for funds to conduct the study.
Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg has said the project would boost the region’s economy.
The Trans-Borneo Railway was initially suggested by former prime minister Najib Razak to Indonesian president Joko Widodo in 2015 to facilitate the movement of people, goods and services.
In April, it was reported that Brunei-based Brunergy Utama Sdn Bhd claimed it would implement a US$70 billion (RM330 billion) railway project, which aimed to shorten travel times between Brunei, Sarawak, Kalimantan, and Sabah.
The company outlined plans for the project, including two phases covering routes spanning over 1,600km, to be served by high-speed trains capable of reaching speeds of up to 350km/h.
Loke, however, said Putrajaya had not given any approval for such a project, and that the tender for a feasibility study on a similar proposal would only be opened in May.
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