TUARAN. Gundohing Joluin Joiruh, the vice chief of Kiulu KDM, along with local party leaders, has voiced their disappointment regarding the current leaders in the area, including the relevant government agencies, who appear to neglect the interests of the Kiulu community.
They have allowed the road at KM 2.45 of the Tamparuli-Kiulu route to remain in disrepair for over a decade.
He emphasised the road’s significance for thousands of residents and urged authorities to adopt a proactive approach rather than a reactive one, addressing issues only after they escalate.
“Currently, we only react when problems arise, instead of taking proactive measures beforehand,’ he said in his latest social media post.
Joluin, a resident of Kampung Tompinahaton Kiulu, emphasised that there are numerous leaders in Kiulu, particularly from the ruling party, who have the ability to advocate for this issue with higher authorities.
He urged that the responsible parties must act promptly and with integrity to accelerate the repair projects for the slope and roads.
“Every time a road is damaged, the contractor is unfairly blamed or used as a scapegoat. The contractor performs the work according to the specified instructions.
“Therefore, the relevant departments should monitor the situation. The real question is, why does it take years to address these issues?” he stated.
He expressed that the residents of Kiulu are aware that the road damage was due to a natural disaster.
He noted, ‘The community is frustrated because we have been aware of the road’s (KM.2.45) deterioration for years, yet we only respond when it becomes severely damaged or impassable. Our quick actions seem to seek recognition, which is unnecessary. There should be no reason for prolonged neglect of the situation.”
Joluin hopes that no one will exploit this situation for support by making superficial comments to appease the people of Kiulu’.
“Why was this not addressed sooner? It is incredibly disappointing,” he said.
He questioned, ‘Why do we only react when the road is severely damaged, as if we are trying to play the hero? This is not the behaviour expected from a leader; it merely takes advantage of the community’s hardships.’
He mentioned that residents now have to use the longer and inconvenient Tamparuli-Telipok-Kiulu route, particularly affecting those living near Tamparuli (after KM2.45).
Joluin urges the authorities to hasten the repair of the damaged road, suggesting the construction of a temporary road alongside it.
“Enough is enough; we need reform in how we address such issues. I am extremely disappointed that the road was left in disrepair for so long,’ he stated.
While acknowledging that Kiulu has seen development over the past decade, Joluin emphasised that basic needs still do not meet current demands.
