FRUSTRATED over the poor response by authorities to repair the increasing number of potholes in the state, Sabahans have resorted to white-painting them to alert motorists.
Such white-painted potholes have since been spotted across Kepayan, Moyog, Jalan Lintas, and Penampang.
An activist, Kratos Ragnarok took to Facebook to voice his outrage following a fatal accident caused by a pothole in Kepayan.
“Recently, a tragic incident occurred that claimed the life of an innocent person. May his soul Rest In Peace!” Kratos wrote in a widely shared post.
Explaining his motivation, Kratos said, “Since the district and municipal councillors from GRS and Pakatan Harapan in Sabah are not doing their job and are failing to pressure the Public Works Department (PWD), the white-marked potholes are meant to help drivers and motorcyclists avoid them until the authorities repair the potholes.”
The markings, though functional as warnings, have also sparked controversy whether such work is deemed as graffiti and violates local by-laws.
Such acts can be seen as a form of protest in the face of government inaction.
The tragic death of a motorcyclist in Lido, Kepayan after running into a pothole has sparked debate with many calling for accountability by those concerned.
Netizens are demanding urgent action from the state and PWD to address deteriorating road conditions.
“We deserve better and safer roads in Sabah,” Kratos wrote, reflecting the sentiment of many frustrated Sabahans.
While authorities have yet to comment on the campaign, the markings are being interpreted as both warnings and symbols of protest. - February 5, 2025.
