KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government is determined to ensure a more efficient execution of Phase 1B of the Pan Borneo Highway by addressing challenges encountered during Phase 1A.
Deputy Chief Minister III, Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, said the state is focusing on key areas such as land acquisition, utility relocation, and technical operations to prevent delays that hampered the previous phase.
“We have learned valuable lessons from Phase 1A and are committed to improving the execution of Phase 1B. Our priority is increasing efficiency, particularly in technical aspects, land acquisition, and utility relocation, to avoid unnecessary delays,” said Shahelmey, who also serves as the Works Minister.
As part of a broader effort to enhance project oversight, the Sabah government will closely monitor the progress of 488 infrastructure projects, including the Pan Borneo Highway. The goal is to ensure timely completion and adherence to budgetary constraints.
The federal government’s allocation of nearly RM40bil for infrastructure development in Sabah is expected to significantly boost the state’s construction sector, support the development of rural roads, upgrade dilapidated schools, and construct new health clinics.
Shahelmey also stressed the importance of collaboration between the federal and state governments, as well as with contractors and consultants, to ensure the project’s success.
“Both governments share the responsibility of ensuring adequate manpower, materials, and coordination of critical elements such as land acquisition and utility relocation,” he said during the district-level National Sports Day celebration.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to closely monitor all projects under its purview and confirmed that all contracts for Phase 1B of the Pan Borneo Highway had been awarded, with the final two packages expected to be finalised by the end of the year.
Reflecting on Phase 1A, Shahelmey acknowledged the delays faced due to various challenges but reiterated the government's determination to improve efficiency in Phase 1B by proactively addressing those issues.
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan recently announced that RM13bil of the total allocation would fund the 488 infrastructure projects, while RM26.6bil is earmarked for the construction of Phases 1A and 1B of the Pan Borneo Highway.
