By Ahmad Farid Sainuri, PKR Sabah Information Chief
KOTA KINABALU: I am responding to the statement made by the PAS Sabah Information Chief questioning the Federal Government’s priorities, particularly regarding the approval of over RM21 billion in transportation infrastructure projects allocated to Penang.
We acknowledge that Sabah’s road conditions still demand urgent attention. As a son of Sabah, we are committed to accelerating the completion of Pan Borneo and narrowing the development gap between Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia.
However, if we are to make comparisons, let us do so fairly and accurately. The figure exceeding RM21 billion mentioned for Penang does not represent an annual allocation handed to the Penang State Government.
The majority of these funds originate from large-scale infrastructure projects implemented in phases over several years, notably the Penang LRT project valued at RM16.8 billion, alongside airport expansion, port, and maritime terminal initiatives.
Therefore, it would be misleading to compare Penang’s total project value solely against a single component of Sabah’s annual road maintenance allocation.
If we are to include the complete value of Penang’s LRT in our comparison, we must equally incorporate the full value of major projects currently underway in Sabah.
The 2026 Budget specifically allocates RM15.9 billion for the Pan-Borneo Highway Sabah Phase 1A and Phase 1B, demonstrating substantial commitment to this critical infrastructure corridor.
Furthermore, the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road Phases 1 and 2, valued at RM8.81 billion, alongside the Trans-Borneo Highway worth RM2.99 billion, collectively form a transformative strategic network development for Borneo that cannot be overlooked.
In aviation, nearly RM500 million has been approved for expanding Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), while RM120.9 million is earmarked for upgrading Tawau Airport—totaling approximately RM620 million for these two facilities alone, not accounting for planned enhancements to Lahad Datu Airport.
Consequently, Penang’s LRT development does not signify that Sabah has been neglected in transportation infrastructure advancement.
Penang faces distinct urban transportation challenges including congestion and density issues requiring mass transit solutions.
Sabah, conversely, represents a vastly larger region with unique geographical constraints. Therefore, its development priorities rightfully emphasize the Pan-Borneo Highway, rural connectivity roads, inter-district linkages, and foundational infrastructure.
Equitable development does not mean Penang must forgo LRT until every Sabah road reaches completion.
Equitable development signifies that the Federal Government must advance both regions according to their respective needs, while prioritizing efforts to narrow Sabah’s development gap.
We must also acknowledge the factual progress of Pan-Borneo. Currently, physical advancement on Pan-Borneo Sabah has reached approximately 88 percent for Phase 1A and surpassed 20 percent for Phase 1B.
The Government must persistently ensure this project accelerates and completes without unreasonable delays.
Sabah continues receiving the attention and priority of the MADANI Government.
Our immediate responsibility is guaranteeing every allocation and project executes more rapidly, delivering tangible benefits to the people.
