KUALA LUMPUR: June 27, 2026 – The federal government has been urged to address the serious problem of badly damaged roads and worsening traffic congestion in Sabah, which are endangering road users and damaging the local economy.
Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan, who represents the parliamentary constituency of Keningau, raised the issue during debate on the Road Transport Bill 2026 in the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday.
He said road conditions in Sabah were in a poor state, with potholes and damage at many locations, and that this had long been a source of complaint among residents.
He insisted that road safety must be a priority. Damaged and potholed roads could not be left without immediate action, as they posed a risk to all users.
Jeffrey said the state of the roads not only caused vehicle damage but also contributed to accidents, some of them fatal.
He urged the Transport Ministry and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to step up monitoring of road construction and maintenance work in Sabah, to ensure that repairs were carried out promptly.
The MP also highlighted the worsening traffic congestion in Keningau town, which serves as a major economic and administrative hub for Sabah’s interior.
He described the daily gridlock as a problem that had persisted for years without a comprehensive solution.
He made clear that traffic congestion was not just a road issue, but one that directly affected people’s wellbeing and local economic growth.
Jeffrey said delays caused by congestion resulted in lost time, increased fuel consumption, higher business costs and reduced productivity.
He suggested that the Transport Ministry and JPJ take a more active role in traffic planning and vehicle-flow management, rather than leaving the matter solely to the Public Works Department or planning agencies.
He added that tackling congestion required co-operation and active involvement from all relevant agencies.
Jeffrey confirmed his support for the Road Transport Bill 2026, which aims to strengthen enforcement and introduce heavier penalties for traffic offences.
He expressed hope that its implementation would lead to a safer and more efficient transport system across the country.
