Miri: The construction of a 4.95-kilometre stretch of the Trans Borneo Highway (LTB) in Miri is set to begin in the first quarter of 2026, as revealed in the Dewan Rakyat today. The project covers the stretch from Jalan Kuala Baram By-Pass in Miri, extending from Sungai Baram to the Miri Industrial Training Institute, with the Sarawak Public Works Department currently in the tendering process.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi emphasized the project's focus on enhancing the road infrastructure and fortifying Sarawak's northern region's land transport network. Additionally, maintenance on a separate 9.7km section of the highway, part of the Redline alignment, began on June 1 and is managed by a Federal roads concessionaire.

The highway, initially a state road, was reclassified as a Federal road due to its critical role as a primary connection between Malaysia and Brunei. Nanta responded to Chiew Choon Man (PH-Miri) during a Dewan Rakyat session, addressing concerns about the deteriorating condition of sections of Jalan Kuala Baram By-Pass Miri.

Nanta further explained that the Works Ministry (KKR) is committed to improving the deteriorating road conditions, exacerbated by increased traffic and heavy vehicle loads. The road's role as a main link between Malaysia and Brunei necessitates these upgrades for user safety and traffic efficiency.

Under the Routine Maintenance Work scope, the appointed concessionaire is required to conduct patrols of federal roads at least twice a week. Any issues such as potholes must be addressed within 24 hours, with penalties imposed for non-compliance.