Kota Kinabalu (Mar 24) - Residents of Pulau Gaya are urging Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) to open its newly built jetty for public use, citing ongoing safety risks faced by daily commuters travelling between the island and Kota Kinabalu.
The appeal comes as islanders continue to rely on aging and deteriorating jetties, which have been described as slippery, unstable, and unsafe. Hundreds of residents commute by boat each day, typically arriving at the Kota Kinabalu central market area, but current facilities have raised serious concerns over public safety.
Junz Wong, the Tanjung Aru assemblyman, said he has received numerous complaints from Pulau Gaya residents regarding the condition of existing jetties. He noted that these structures pose risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, women, and children.
The issue has become more pressing following the completion of a modern jetty developed by DBKK. While the facility offers improved infrastructure and comfort, it is currently designated for tourism use, leaving local residents unable to benefit from its safer conditions.
Wong pointed out that Kota Kinabalu already has several jetties catering to tourists, including the new DBKK facility and other terminals, while island residents remain dependent on outdated and potentially hazardous structures.
He also highlighted concerns about emergency situations, questioning whether current jetties are suitable for urgent medical evacuations or even the dignified transport of the deceased. He stressed that access to safe and reliable jetty infrastructure should be treated as a basic necessity rather than a privilege.
The proposal calls for the DBKK jetty to be opened, at least partially, for public use — particularly for daily commuting and emergency needs. The move is seen as a practical step to reduce risks and improve accessibility for island residents.
For Sabahans, particularly those living on Pulau Gaya, the situation underscores ongoing gaps in infrastructure between tourism-focused developments and essential public needs. While new facilities are being introduced to enhance visitor experiences, local communities continue to face challenges in accessing safe and reliable transport.
Opening the jetty to public use could significantly improve daily life for island residents, providing safer commutes for work, education, and access to essential services. It would also strengthen emergency response capabilities, which are crucial for island communities.
More broadly, the issue highlights the importance of balanced development in Sabah, ensuring that infrastructure investments benefit not only tourists but also the local population who depend on these facilities every day.