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KOTA KINABALU – Kadamaian Assemblyman Datuk Ewon Benedick has called for increased infrastructure funding under Sabah's 2025 Supplementary Budget to address critical road and drainage issues in Kadamaian and Penampang.
The appeal follows mounting complaints from constituents about deteriorating road conditions and worsening flood risks in these areas.
Documented Infrastructure Challenges
Official reports confirm pressing needs:
- Sabah Public Works Department (JKR) data shows:
- 37 km of priority roads in Kadamaian require urgent resurfacing
- 22 flood-damaged road sections needing repairs in Penampang
- Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) records indicate:
- Penampang's flood-prone zones have expanded 22% since 2020
- 14 major flash floods recorded in 2023, up from 9 in 2020
- Economic impact:
- Sabah Farmers' Association reports 30% crop value losses annually due to transport delays
- SME Association estimates RM4.7 million in annual business disruptions
Current Funding Shortfalls
While the 2024 State Budget allocated RM185 million for rural infrastructure:
- Only RM3.2 million was designated for Kadamaian road works
- Penampang's flood mitigation projects remain 45% incomplete after three years
Proposed Solutions
Ewon's funding proposal includes:
- RM50 million emergency allocation for high-priority repairs
- Accelerated completion of ongoing drainage projects
- Community-based maintenance programs
The assemblyman has submitted petitions with over 5,000 resident signatures to support his budget appeal.
Broader Context
The request aligns with:
- Sabah's 12th Malaysia Plan infrastructure targets
- Climate change adaptation requirements for drainage systems
- East-West connectivity goals under the Sabah Maju Jaya roadmap