KOTA KINABALU, April 29, 2026 — The Member of the Sabah State Assembly (ADUN) for Sindumin urged the people of Sabah to bravely take legal action against the Public Works Department of Malaysia (JKR) following allegations of negligence in the implementation of road projects, particularly involving the Pan Borneo Highway Sabah project.
During the debate on the Speech of the Governor of Sabah in the State Assembly, he emphasized that the prolonged delay of nearly 10 years in the project has seriously affected the safety of road users.
According to him, accidents, injuries, and fatalities have been reported almost every month, believed to be caused by unfinished road conditions and poor project management.
“If negligence occurs, the public has the right to sue. This is not a new matter. I myself, as a legal practitioner for over 20 years, have assisted several victims pro bono, and all of them were successful,” he said.
He also supported the proposal by the ADUN for Tungku for a government policy to be introduced to allow road users to sue negligent contractors, including in cases of failure to provide signage and traffic management in construction areas.
In addition, he suggested that accident victims due to unsafe road conditions should also be able to claim compensation through bulk insurance provided by the government.
Road Design and U-Turn Issues Burdening the People
The ADUN for Sindumin also raised the issue of road design, which he deemed impractical, including the construction of U-turns that are too far away, causing inconvenience to local residents.
He cited the route to Pekan Mesapol and several surrounding villages such as Kampung Berambai and Kampung Hulu Sipitang, where residents have to take a detour of up to 3 kilometers just to make a U-turn.
“Without that U-turn, the journey would take less than a minute. But now it can take up to five minutes through several villages. This clearly shows disorganized planning,” he said.
Urging the Construction of Pedestrian Bridges for Student Safety
Meanwhile, he also emphasized the need for the construction of a pedestrian bridge in the Kampung Layun, Melalia area for the convenience of students crossing to the nearby primary school.
According to him, although several pedestrian bridges have been built along the Pan Borneo route, locations that truly require such facilities have still not received attention.
“The safety of school children must be prioritized. The pedestrian bridge at that location is very critical but has not been implemented,” he reiterated.
Questioning Contractors Who Fail Yet Still Receive Projects
He also questioned allegations that there are contractors who have faced legal action and hefty penalties, yet still receive new projects in other locations.
“I urge the ministry to investigate this matter. Unsatisfactory performance but still awarded projects — this raises questions,” he asserted.
A Call to the People
Concluding his speech, the ADUN for Sindumin called on the people, especially those who are less fortunate, to come forward to seek justice through legal channels if they become victims of negligence by related parties.
He also offered pro bono legal assistance for Small Claims Actions to victims in need.
“If there is clear negligence, do not be afraid to sue. The rights of the people must be defended,” he said.
