KOTA KINABALU: Sabah requires at least an additional RM40mil to resolve compensation payments for 144 owners, a significant hurdle delaying the Donggongon–Tambunan road upgrade.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the initial RM30mil allocation was insufficient, prompting a request for more funds.
"The RM30mil is not enough. That is why we have requested more. These payments must be made urgently, or the project will face further delays," he said during a press conference on Sunday (April 20).
The estimated compensation exceeds RM70mil and involves 98 landowners and 46 with structural claims.
"The delays in compensation are affecting progress, particularly for utility relocation and physical works. We cannot proceed with construction on land that has not been acquired," he added.
Nanta has directed his officers to organise a coordination meeting with relevant agencies to expedite funding and finalise the next steps.
He assured that the contractor is ready to proceed and that the government is committed to resolving the outstanding issues.
"This project is critical for public safety and convenience. Once completed, it will vastly improve road conditions and traffic flow."
Project officials confirmed that valuations and measurements have been completed, but no payments have been made so far.
The upgrade involves widening and elevating existing road stretches to enhance safety and comfort. Currently, the route’s level of service (LOS) is rated "E", which Nanta said will be significantly improved upon completion.
"This project cannot be delayed any further. Once compensation is settled, the contractor can get to work," he stressed.
Approved under Rolling Plan-2 of the 11th Malaysia Plan, the Donggongon–Tambunan road upgrade covers the stretch from ITCC to the Datuk Panglima Banting junction in Penampang.
The RM299.76mil project began on Oct 25, 2022, and is expected to be completed by October 2026. To date, it has achieved 13.06% physical progress.
Once completed, the upgrade is expected to reduce travel time by up to 30 minutes and alleviate congestion along the main link from Kota Kinabalu to Tambunan, while also offering alternative routes to Papar and Sindumin.
The scope includes widening over 4.9km of roads from four to six lanes, constructing a 580m dual carriageway underpass at the Sigah roundabout, building two bridges across the Kibabaig River, three U-turns, and a pedestrian bridge.
Nanta, on a two-day working visit to Sabah, is expected to meet Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor on Monday (April 21) to discuss federal-level road development and projects under the Public Works Department.
He will also chair the Project Implementation Monitoring Committee and Pan Borneo Steering Committee, which will be attended by State Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya later that day.
