Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has directed the State Public Works Department (PWD) to take a proactive stance on road maintenance following public outcry over the “moon-like” condition of several major roads in Sabah.
Hajiji urged officers to adopt a more responsive approach to complaints, especially regarding potholes that have led locals to nickname these damaged roads as “Jalan Bulan” (moon-like roads).
“We must be proactive. If necessary, instruct the concessionaires to repair damages immediately,” he said when visiting to the State Works Ministry building in Kota Kinabalu today,
Hajiji acknowledged the backlash against the state government due to deteriorating road conditions, which have affected Sabah's image.
“Listen to the people’s grievances. There are regular complaints, so I want the State PWD to act without delay and find immediate solutions,” he stressed.
Recent heavy rains in Sepanggar exacerbated the problem, causing damage to many vehicles.
Sepanggar MP Datuk Mustapha Sakmut has intervened and has given contractors a month to repair the affected stretch along the Tebobon-Kota Kinabalu highway.
The stretch is a busy route connecting the city with the main port and east coast Sabah areas. Although repairs were completed, many fear the damage will recur due to heavy traffic in the area.
Separately, Hajiji announced that the state government will engage an independent investigator to examine the causes behind Sabah’s high rate of non-revenue water (NRW), which currently stands at 60%.
He also cited the rampant water theft as a significant factor contributing to the NRW, a loss incurred by the State Water Department.
Among those present during the visit were Deputy Chief Minister II/Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, Deputy Chief Minister III/Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, Rural Development Minister Datuk Jahid Jahim, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Ariffin Arif, Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoon Jin Zhe, Community Development and People's Wellbeing Minister Datuk James Ratib, as well as assistant ministers and senior officers from the Works Ministry. - November 5, 2024
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