The construction of Phase 1A of the Pan Borneo Highway Sabah has now reached 77.41 per cent completion and is expected to be fully finished by 2026 at the latest, said Minister of Works Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
He stated that four out of the total 15 work packages in this phase have been completed, while the remaining 11 packages are still under construction. “Phase 1A was supposed to be completed by now, but as we are aware, there have been many issues, causing the project to become nearly problematic. That’s why Phase 1A has significantly exceeded its original timeline. Currently, it is expected to be completed by 2026 at the latest, with many factors affecting our timeline.
“I cannot specify the exact construction costs, but we are examining the specific issues… some are eligible for claims, some are not,” he said at a press conference after inspecting the progress of the highway construction today.
Nanta noted that several factors have contributed to the delays in the Pan Borneo Highway Sabah Phase 1A construction, such as coordination problems among the parties involved, including contractors, government agencies, and consultants. “We understand that each party has its shortcomings, so I have discussed with the Sabah Minister of Works (Shahelmey) to address these issues together, and regular coordination meetings are being held,” he said.
He also highlighted that there are issues related to funding shortages from the contractors, who claimed delays in receiving payments. However, upon review, it was found that the contractors had failed to submit complete documentation when making claims, and this matter is being addressed.
Regarding Phase 1B of the Pan Borneo Highway Sabah, Nanta mentioned that the work packages are currently in the open tender process and expressed hope that acceptance letters to the successful companies will be finalised by September this year.
Earlier, Nanta inspected the progress of the Sindumin-Kampung Melalia, Kampung Melalia-Beaufort, and Putatan-Inanam work packages. The inspection was also attended by Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, who is also the Sabah Minister of Works, and Semporna MP Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.
The Ministry of Works (KKR) also indicated that the inspection focused on the ministry’s ongoing efforts to manage recent flood incidents in Sabah, particularly in Penampang near Phase 1A of the Pan Borneo Highway. The statement highlighted that the primary causes of the flood incidents included unusual rainfall, which led to nearby rivers being unable to accommodate the water capacity, as well as an imperfect drainage system outside the Federal Road traffic area.
“The Public Works Department, Department of Irrigation and Drainage, and Local Authorities will take immediate action in the event of flooding in the Pan Borneo Highway construction areas to minimise adverse effects on residents and the project,” the statement said.
