Ewon Welcomes Feasibility Study and Preliminary Design for Railway System Linking KKIP with Sepanggar Port

9 December 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The implementation of the Feasibility Study and Preliminary Design for a Railway System Linking Putatan to the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) and Sepanggar Port is welcomed by Deputy Chief Minister III, Datuk Ewon Benedick.

Ewon, who is also the Sabah Minister of Industry, Entrepreneur and Transport, said the study is crucial in determining a new direction for the state’s rail transport system.

“I welcome JKNS’s intention to commence this study soon. I am keen to review the findings as I believe that the need for improved connectivity is vital, especially in linking Sabah’s industrial parks with ports across the state."

“The findings will provide important input in determining a new direction for the state’s rail transport system, including support for Sabah’s industrial and logistics development agenda,” he said.

He said this to reporters after making a working visit to the Sabah State Railway Department (JKNS) here today.

Regarding the ongoing Feasibility Study for the Trans Borneo Railway Project, Ewon said the ministry would submit additional views to ensure Sabah’s interests are prioritised in the Trans Borneo assessment.

“The Sabah State Railway Department has submitted its views, prioritising ports throughout Sabah, namely in Tawau, Lahad Datu, Sandakan, Kudat and Kota Kinabalu,” he said.

He also welcomed the implementation of the Review of Railway Service Fare Rates as well as other studies related to the upgrading of railway systems and assets.

“In terms of revenue, JKNS currently collects around RM1.2 million annually. With the studies underway and those to be carried out, I believe the government can formulate a new direction to increase revenue without neglecting the department’s role in serving the public,” he added.

Ewon said his ministry will continue to strengthen rail services as a preferred transport system for the people of Sabah in the future.

“I envision a long-term future where railway transport becomes the main mode of mobility for the people of Sabah. JKNS is consistently working towards this, and I will continue to support every plan to upgrade their facilities and services,” he said.

Ewon expressed hope that the Sabah First team within JKNS will continue to be strengthened to ensure quality, safe and efficient services for the public.

Meanwhile, JKNS Director Ir. Mohammad Safri said the Feasibility Study for the Trans Borneo Railway Project is being conducted over 12 months and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

The Feasibility Study and Preliminary Design for the Putatan–KKIP–Sepanggar Port Railway System will begin in the near future and is expected to be completed within 12 months.

During the visit, Ir. Mohammad Safri delivered a briefing on the department’s existing services, challenges and new initiatives.

Also present during the visit were Assistant Minister of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Transport, Datuk Jonnybone J. Kurum, Ministry Permanent Secretary Datuk Thomas Logijin, as well as ministry and JKNS officers.