Kuala lumpur: The contractor for the Sabah Pan Borneo Highway Work Package 11 (Phase 1B Rampayan Laut-Sarang alignment) has submitted a recovery plan to address the 32-day delay recorded so far. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the measure aims to ensure the RM167.48 million project is completed by its contractual completion date of September 29, 2026.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the 7.3-kilometre alignment had achieved 61.76 percent physical progress as of June 25, but remains 4.35 percent behind the original schedule. The Works Ministry, in collaboration with the Sabah Public Works Department, the project consultant, and the contractor, will continue to closely monitor the implementation of the recovery plan. The goal is to reduce the delay to 14 days by August 2026.

Nanta attributed the delays to challenges in utility relocation involving Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd, the Sabah State Water Department, and Celcom Timur Sabah Sdn Bhd, as well as issues related to land acquisition. He emphasized the need for all stakeholders to enhance coordination and resolve these issues proactively to expedite critical works.

The alignment is expected to provide a safer and more efficient alternative route, reducing the travel distance to Simpang Mengayau or Kudat by up to 30 kilometres. Additionally, the route will decrease travel time by 30 to 60 minutes and improve access to the Tourism Belt and the Northern Sabah Coastal Tourism Master Plan. The improved infrastructure connectivity is projected to create more economic, investment, and employment opportunities for the local community.

Nanta highlighted the importance of ensuring that the project is not only completed on schedule but also delivered to the highest standards of quality, safety, and integrity for the well-being of the people of Sabah.