THE Sabah Government is implementing a series of short-term and long-term road infrastructure projects to ease worsening traffic congestion in Ranau and Kundasang, especially during weekends, school holidays and festive seasons.
Deputy Chief Minister I and Works and Utilities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said the initiatives include upgrading alternative roads, constructing overtaking and climbing lanes, and developing new bypass routes to improve traffic flow and reduce dependence on the main road corridor.
He said the 6km Kampung Mohimboyon–Lipantai–Pahu road upgrading project is 69.69 per cent complete and is expected to be completed in 2027, while the 4.05km Tambiau–Sarapong road upgrading project has reached 5.42 per cent physical progress and is scheduled for completion in 2028.
Joachim said the Government also plans to construct overtaking lanes at strategic locations between Ranau and Kundasang, with 10 proposals submitted under the Sabah Public Works Department’s Traffic Management and Improvement Scheme.
He added that RM2.3 million was allocated in 2025 for works at three locations along the Kota Kinabalu–Sandakan Road, while another RM560,000 was allocated in 2026 for an additional location along the same route.
“For a more comprehensive solution, the Government has approved several strategic projects under the 13th Malaysia Plan, including the proposed 30km Ranau Bypass from Bundu Tuhan to Kilimu and the upgrading of the 8km Kampung Mesilau–Kampung Lipasu road.
“These projects will provide additional alternative routes, increase road capacity, reduce congestion, shorten travel time and improve road safety and user comfort,” he said.
Joachim said the proposed Ranau Bypass has been approved for detailed design studies and will involve the construction of a new road, upgrading of existing roads and the building of three bridges.
However, he said the physical implementation of the bypass remains subject to funding approval.
Meanwhile, the Kampung Mesilau–Kampung Lipasu upgrading project, which will transform an 8km gravel road into a sealed road, has been approved under the 13th Malaysia Plan with a total project cost of RM138.661 million and an approved funding ceiling of RM40 million.
The project is currently at the consultant appointment stage for detailed design.
Joachim said this in reply to a question from Paginatan Assemblyman Datuk Rusdin Riman during question time at the State Legislative Assembly sitting on Thursday.
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