Sapulut: The paving of Jalan Sapulut-Salong-Pagalungan-Pensiangan has now been completed up to Pensiangan town, significantly reducing travel time and improving access for residents in Sabah's interior. Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup highlighted the importance of this development as part of his commitments as the Member of Parliament for Pensiangan.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, during a recent working visit to Pensiangan town, Arthur inspected the progress of the road project. He noted the transformation brought by the new road, observing more cars parked around the town, indicating improved connectivity. The journey from Keningau to Pensiangan town now takes only three hours, compared with more than six hours previously. This improvement ensures safer and more comfortable travel, even in bad weather, which previously could leave travelers stranded.
Arthur emphasized that the road project is part of a broader master development plan aimed at transforming Sabah's interior, especially the Pensiangan parliamentary constituency. Phase Four of the project aims to extend the road network to the border of Kalimantan, Indonesia, creating further economic and tourism opportunities.
The master plan includes several other development projects such as the completed Jalan Sinaron-Linayukan, Tongod, and the ongoing construction of Jalan Rancangan Belia Tiulon-Simbuan. Additionally, a Sapulut coffee processing factory is under construction, and the upgrading of the jetty and boat facilities at Pangkalan Salong is nearing completion. These projects are complemented by initiatives to enhance telephone and internet connectivity, and the construction of an agricultural collection center, the Pagalungan Tamu, and the Salong Agrobazaar. Plans for an immigration and customs complex at the Kalimantan border crossing are also in the approval process.
Arthur stated that these projects are part of the government's continuous efforts to strengthen infrastructure, boost the local economy, and improve the well-being of communities in Sabah's interior.