by David E.
TENOM: August 4, 2026 — The state government is taking a pragmatic approach to ease traffic congestion in Tenom town by providing a temporary alternative route, in a move that underscores an unusual spirit of co-operation between the authorities and private landowners.
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar said the original proposal by the Public Works Department (JKR), valued at RM12 million, was still awaiting federal approval — but the state government did not want residents to continue suffering in the meantime.
“After discussions with the landowners, they willingly agreed to allow a temporary route to be built for the convenience of the public. This shows the concern of the local community, which we greatly appreciate,” he said after a meeting with technical departments in Tenom on Monday.
In a separate development, a new RM42 million Melalap water treatment plant, approved by the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), is expected to add capacity of three million litres per day — resolving long-standing water supply issues in Tenom and Melalap. Tenders are expected to be issued by the end of this year, with completion scheduled for 2030.
Meanwhile, construction of the new Melalap tourist site — featuring a heritage theme centred around an old railway station — has reached 30% completion, promising business opportunities for local residents.
