Kuala lumpur: The RM70.6 million initiative to upgrade Jalan Lok Kawi, extending from the Sabindo Roundabout to Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Kinarut, is projected to ease traffic congestion and enhance road safety along the rapidly developing Lok Kawi-Pengalat-Papar corridor. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor emphasized the project as a testament to the federal government's ongoing commitment, through the Ministry of Works (KKR), to bolster road infrastructure development in Sabah.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Lok Kawi-Pengalat-Papar corridor has seen swift development, with a surge in housing projects, government facilities, schools, and tourism attractions. This growth has led to increased traffic volumes and congestion, particularly during peak hours, raising concerns among local road users. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Jalan Lok Kawi upgrading project, Hajiji highlighted the government's dedication to planning and implementing developments that benefit the populace and enhance their quality of life.
Present at the ceremony were Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi and Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, who is also the Papar Member of Parliament. Hajiji elaborated on the 1.3-kilometre project, which includes upgrading the existing two-lane road into a four-lane dual carriageway. This move is seen as proof of the government's commitment to addressing the mobility needs and concerns of Sabah's residents.
Hajiji noted that the project transcends mere road widening, with a focus on the safety and convenience of road users. Planned facilities include a pedestrian overhead bridge, a covered walkway to the school, bus stops, and motorcycle shelters to benefit students, pedestrians, and road users alike. He assured that the state government would fully cooperate on land acquisition and utility relocation matters to ensure the project's smooth execution.
He urged all relevant government departments and utility agencies to act promptly in resolving technical issues to keep the project on schedule. Hajiji stressed the importance of avoiding bureaucratic delays and the necessity of strengthening cooperation between federal and state agencies to ensure the project's success.
Hajiji reiterated that efficient and safe road infrastructure is a crucial driver of socio-economic growth, while also aiding in attracting investment and stimulating the tourism sector. He expressed confidence that the project would reduce travel time, improve connectivity, and boost economic activity in Papar, aligning with the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development roadmap.
The Chief Minister also announced the approval of the Second Papar Bridge project, alongside emergency rock and earth embankment works along the Kogopon Intake riverbank and riverbank protection works. These initiatives are among the projects requested by the Papar Member of Parliament to improve infrastructure and benefit the local community.