By MOHD IZHAM BIN HASHIM
KOTA KINABALU: Kemabong Assemblyman Rubin Balang has issued an urgent warning over the critical condition of the Kilometer 15 Kemabong-Sipitang road, describing it as a serious hazard that could collapse at any time, posing a significant risk to public safety.
“This KM15 Kemabong-Sipitang road poses a grave threat to road users as its condition has been confirmed by the contractor as high risk and could give way at any moment,” he told the State Legislative Assembly yesterday, calling for immediate action from the State Public Works Department (JKR).
“I hope JKR takes this matter seriously before natural hazards such as landslides cause severe damage to this vital road link,” he added, while criticizing the slow response from JKR and roadwork concessionaires in addressing infrastructure issues, particularly in rural areas.
Rubin attributed these delays to outdated administrative procedures that continue to hinder the implementation of essential infrastructure and utility projects across the state.
“It’s not that the government is neglecting the matter — the problem lies in outdated procedures,” he said, advocating for the adoption of a ‘Design and Build’ system to speed up crucial repair works by streamlining approval processes.
As a solution, he proposed that the State Government decentralize decision-making by granting district-level JKR offices the authority to directly manage emergency road repairs, including the direct appointment of contractors where necessary.
Beyond road safety, Rubin voiced concern over broader delays in development projects, citing personal experiences with stalled or abandoned initiatives that often take years to resume. He described this as a long-standing inefficiency that erodes public confidence and obstructs progress.
He also stressed the importance of integrity and transparency in the management of development funds, expressing his support for government initiatives aimed at curbing the misuse of public resources.
Addressing economic participation, Rubin highlighted the challenges faced by Bumiputera contractors in securing government projects, despite meeting the necessary qualifications. He urged the government to provide fairer access to opportunities, including smaller-scale maintenance works, to ensure their sustainable involvement in the state’s economic growth.
In conclusion, Rubin reaffirmed his backing for the government’s human capital development initiatives, emphasizing the importance of equipping youth for employment through technical training, agricultural ventures, entrepreneurship, and higher education.
