Kota kinabalu: Contractors of Phase 1B of the Pan Borneo Highway project are urged to ensure seamless construction, adhering to quality, time, and cost requirements. Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Maslan highlighted the importance of avoiding issues encountered during the implementation of Phase 1A, such as land acquisition and utility relocation challenges.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Ahmad Maslan stated that the Public Works Department (JKR) is taking steps to expedite the land acquisition and utility relocation processes. This includes reducing the period from two years to one year by appointing private valuers. Previously, Sabah had only six appraisers, which was insufficient for the project’s demands. The monthly steering committee meetings for the Sabah Pan Borneo Highway project have consequently decided to engage private valuers to hasten the process.

Dr. Ahmad Maslan emphasized that this initiative aligns with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s directive for the ministry to address projects with urgency, especially those facing various challenges and necessitating immediate action. He conveyed this after reviewing the site of Work Package 25 of the Pan Borneo Highway Phase 1B project.

The Pan Borneo Highway Sabah Phase 1B project has a total implementation cost of RM14 billion, including RM5 billion in development allocation and RM9 billion through loans. Regarding the progress of Phase 1A, which covers a 318-kilometre stretch, Ahmad noted that physical work is 86.53 percent complete. Meanwhile, Phase 1B, encompassing a 388-kilometre stretch, has reached 12.27 percent in physical progress.