Kota Kinabalu (Dec 13) - The steering committee overseeing the Sabah Pan Borneo Highway project will increase the frequency of its meetings to more effectively resolve issues affecting construction progress, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said.
He explained that the involvement of representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Economy and relevant Sabah state government agencies has allowed for more in-depth and focused discussions during these meetings.
According to Nanta, the discussions address key matters such as project progress, obstacles encountered on the ground and proposed solutions, with the aim of ensuring the Pan Borneo Sabah Highway is completed in line with required quality standards, timelines and cost allocations.
Speaking to reporters after a working visit to inspect Phase 1 of the Pan Borneo Highway at Work Packages 7 and 8 here on Friday, he said face-to-face engagement through the steering committee provides a more effective platform to resolve construction-related issues.
Nanta said the site visit was part of routine efforts by the Works Ministry leadership to closely monitor physical progress, identify challenges and immediately address matters requiring attention at project locations.
He added that this proactive approach is important to avoid delays and ensure that no projects are categorised as “sick”. The inspected work packages form part of the strategic Kota Kinabalu Outer Ring Road (KKORR), which serves as a vital link between the southwest and northwest regions of Sabah.
The infrastructure, he said, is not only critical to Sabah’s main road network but is also expected to generate significant socio-economic benefits by driving growth, attracting industrial investment and improving connectivity between urban and rural areas.
The Pan Borneo Sabah Highway Phase 1 involves the construction of 706 kilometres of roadway and is being implemented in two main stages. Phase 1A spans 318 kilometres and has achieved 86.53 per cent physical completion on site. Phase 1B, covering 388 kilometres, is progressing as planned, with physical progress currently at 12.27 per cent.