Hajiji (centre) performing the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lok Kawi Road Upgrading Project from Sabindo Roundabout to SMK Kinarut at the WSG Kinarut Show Gallery today.
PAPAR: The RM70.6 million upgrading of the Lok Kawi Road from Sabindo Roundabout to Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Kinarut is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve road safety along the rapidly developing Lok Kawi-Pengalat-Papar corridor.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said the project reflects the Federal Government’s continued commitment, through the Ministry of Works (KKR), to strengthening road infrastructure development in Sabah.
He said the Lok Kawi-Pengalat-Papar corridor has become one of the State’s fastest-growing areas, with an increasing number of housing developments, government premises, schools and tourism attractions.
According to him, the rapid development has led to a significant increase in traffic volume, resulting in congestion, particularly during peak hours, and has become one of the main concerns among road users in the area.
“As a government, we are always committed to planning and implementing development that benefits the people and enhances their well-being,” he said when officiating at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lok Kawi Road Upgrading Project from Sabindo Roundabout to SMK Kinarut at the WSG Kinarut Show Gallery here on Tuesday.
Hajiji said the 1.3-kilometre project involves upgrading the existing two-lane road into a dual two-lane carriageway, adding that its approval demonstrates the Government’s continued attention to the mobility needs of the people of Sabah.
He said the project involves more than just road widening, as it also places strong emphasis on road user safety.
“Among the facilities to be provided are a pedestrian bridge, a covered walkway to the school, bus stops and motorcycle shelters, all of which will benefit students, pedestrians and road users,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hajiji assured that the State Government would provide its full cooperation in land acquisition and utility relocation matters to ensure the smooth implementation of the project.
He said all relevant departments and utility agencies must act swiftly to resolve any technical issues so that the project can be completed according to schedule.
“We do not want bureaucratic red tape to become an obstacle to the implementation of this very important project. Close cooperation between the Federal and State agencies must be strengthened to ensure its success,” he said.
Hajiji said efficient and safe road infrastructure is a key driver of socio-economic growth, while also stimulating investment and the tourism sector.
He expressed confidence that the project would reduce travelling time, improve connectivity and stimulate economic activities in Papar in line with the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development agenda.
He said Papar is already experiencing significant transformation through the implementation of various infrastructure and commercial projects, and has the potential to become a major stopover destination for visitors from Brunei and Sarawak once the Pan Borneo Highway is fully completed.
Hajiji also announced the approval of the Second Papar Bridge Project, as well as the Emergency Rock and Earth Revetment Works along the Kogopon Intake Riverbank and Riverbank Protection Works, which were proposed by Papar Member of Parliament Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali for the benefit and convenience of the people of Papar.
