Kota Kinabalu: It may be necessary to implement a peak-hour truck ban on the Sepanggar KKIP and Tuaran bypass roads to alleviate traffic congestion, which is expected to worsen during the fasting month of Ramadan, a study shows.
“The study last year by lecturers from Politeknik Kota Kinabalu and University Malaya remains highly relevant.
“It surveyed 406 road users and a significant 84.5pc of respondents identified heavy vehicles as a primary cause of congestion on these critical routes.
“Of this, a strong majority of 79.5pc respondents supported implementing a ban during peak hours, citing the potential for reduced congestion, improved travel times, and enhanced safety,” said Anbukkarasu Paramasivam and Dr Elayaraja Archunan.
They are senior lecturers at Polytechnic Kota Kinabalu amd Faculty of Business and Economics at Universiti Malaya, respectively.
The study identified the most effective restriction times as 5am to 7am and 4pm to 6pm – periods that align directly with increased traffic during Ramadan as people travel for pre-dawn meals (Sahur) and to break fast (Iftar).
“The implementation of effective peak hour truck restrictions could lead to significant improvements in traffic flow and safety, creating more pleasant and enjoyable driving experiences,” noted Anbukkarasu.
The Sepanggar KKIP and Tuaran Bypass roads are vital arteries connecting Kota Kinabalu to surrounding districts like Tamparuli, Sulaman, Kiulu, and Tuaran.
According to the study, 57.9pc of respondents used both roads, with 78.8pc traveling these routes daily, underscoring their importance to the region’s commuters.
The study also cited recent developments in Kuala Lumpur as compelling evidence for the effectiveness of such bans. The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) expanded restrictions on heavy vehicles during peak hours on selected Klang Valley highways effective February 19, 2025.
This initiative has already shown promising results, with traffic congestion reduced by up to 42pc across affected highways.
These findings align with police monitoring, which reported a 30pc improvement along the NSE during the first day of the restriction.
There was initial pushback from haulier associations but logistics companies have reacted positively to the ban during engagement sessions.
“The Sabah Government can also improve the daily lives of its citizens by implementing a well-planned peak-hour truck ban for a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable commuting experience for everyone during Ramadan,” they said.
