KOTA BELUD: Two concrete bridge projects totalling RM23.3 million in Kampung Kaung and Kampung Melangkap within the Kadamaian State Assembly constituency are now fully operational, significantly enhancing transportation accessibility and stimulating economic activity for residents in the area.
Sabah’s Deputy Chief Minister III and Kadamaian State Assemblyman, Datuk Ewon Benedick, emphasised that the 100-metre Kaung Concrete Bridge, allocated RM14.3 million including construction of a culvert for tributary passage, commenced in August 2024 and was completed by early September this year.
He further noted that the 50-metre Melangkap Concrete Bridge, costing approximately RM9 million, began in February 2025 and was completed in August.
“These two bridges will deliver substantial transformation to economic activities and the lives of thousands of residents in Kaung and Melangkap districts.
“As the people’s representative in this area, I am confident these projects will serve as catalysts for economic growth and enhance the quality of life for thousands of residents utilising these facilities.
“I remain committed to collaborating with various agencies, including JKR Sabah, the Sabah State Economic Planning Unit, and colleagues in both State and Federal Government to advance Kadamaian’s development initiatives as outlined in the Kadamaian Master Development Plan 2020–2035,” he stated.
He made these remarks when met by reporters following his inspection of both projects with Sabah Public Works Department officials, Kota Belud District Office, and the Kadamaian Community Development Leadership Unit (UPPM), on Thursday.
Ewon, who also serves as Sabah’s Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government, particularly the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), for allocating funds toward both initiatives.
“I also extend my thanks to the implementing agencies, namely the Sabah Public Works Department (JKR), and the appointed contractor for ensuring both projects are completed successfully,” he stated.
During the visit, Ewon also inspected the 3-kilometer SK Kaung Road and Melangkap–Kebayau Road, which have been included in the priority list for implementation next year through Sabah State Government financing.
According to him, the proposal to upgrade both roads was made following requests and complaints from residents, while also forming part of the Kadamaian Master Development Plan.
“This represents part of our commitment to ensuring large-scale infrastructure development continues to be implemented consistently in Kadamaian,” he explained.
Ewon noted that several other major road projects are currently underway in the Kadamaian State Assembly constituency, including Sayap Road, Tengkurus Road, Podos Road, Kinasaraban Road, and Taginambur-Komburaon Road.
“This demonstrates that numerous large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly roads and bridges, are being executed in Kadamaian to enhance connectivity and improve the welfare of the people,” he added.
