Ewon: Railbus SOPs Tightened After Tenom incident

12 March 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Chief Minister III and Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Sabah, Datuk Ewon Benedick, announced that standard operating procedures (SOPs) for railbus operations will be comprehensively tightened to prevent future unwanted incidents.

He said the measures follow a report on the collision involving a railbus and a trolley motor in Tenom, presented at the state cabinet meeting.Initial findings revealed the trolley motor was already on the track, not thrown there to stop a supposedly out-of-control train.

“The trolley motor was indeed on the track as it is one of the transport modes used by locals in the area. Claims that it was thrown onto the track to halt the train are untrue,” he said.

Ewon made these remarks to reporters at the Sabah State Railway Department (JKNS) breaking-of-fast event here yesterday.

He noted the investigation also found the railbus loss of control stemmed from negligence in fully checking the braking system before the train's movement that day.

However, after the incident, the driver conducted a thorough brake inspection and took appropriate steps before resuming the journey.“

Post-inspection, the same railbus returned to Tenom Station carrying about 12 teachers and other passengers, proceeding smoothly without brake issues.

“Under regulations, no other movements should occur on the railway track.This matter will be thoroughly reviewed, including legal aspects under existing enactments,” he added.

He assured that Sabah's train services remain safe if all safety SOPs are fully followed.

“I assure you that the trains in use are safe provided all procedures and safety checks are adhered to,” he said.

He plans to ride the same railbus himself to inspect the area, possibly after Aidilfitri celebrations.

At the event, he distributed Ramadan contributions to Sabah railway users as appreciation for loyal customers.He noted this is a JKNS tradition to honour consistent users.

“From my interactions with commuters, some travel from Beaufort to Kota Kinabalu for work or studies at higher learning institutions,” he said.

Also present were Secretary of the Ministry of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Datuk Thomas Logijin and JKNS Director Ir. Mohammad Safri Abd Habi.