Kg Air Alley to Bloom, Loi Backs Police Crackdown and Mural Makeover

1 June 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Api‑Api Assemblyman Loi Kok Liang has commended recent police enforcement operations in Kampung Air (Kg Air) targeting illegal contraband and smuggled-cigarette activities.

He said one of the back alleys in the area has long been regarded as a “black spot” for contraband and illicit cigarette trading, which has for many years tarnished the image of the city centre and affected nearby businesses.

“Many traders in the area have raised their concerns for an extended period. They worry not only about the impact on trade, but also about Kota Kinabalu’s reputation among visitors and tourists,” he said.

Loi revealed that, during a meeting in March this year between Kota Kinabalu elected representatives and the Kota Kinabalu District Police Chief (OCPD), he personally raised the matter and conveyed the concerns of local traders and residents.

“I recall the OCPD listening attentively and pledging to do his best to resolve the issue before the end of his tenure.”

According to him, the current enforcement operations appear to be the result of months of planning and coordination among the relevant authorities.

“Community problems of this nature cannot be solved by a single agency. They require sustained cooperation between the police, enforcement bodies, local authorities and the community.”

He also described the recent anti‑drug awareness and road‑safety programme, organised by the office of Nominated Assemblywoman Grace Lee Li Mei together with AADK Negeri Sabah and JPJ Negeri Sabah, as a positive community initiative that merits recognition.

He emphasised that, alongside enforcement, education and awareness campaigns are equally important, particularly in steering young people away from drugs and illegal activities.

“When enforcement, education and community development advance together, the overall impact will be far more effective in the long term.”

Loi further disclosed that the Kota Kinabalu OCPD had informed him the police have proposed to Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) that the alley be transformed into a mural tourism attraction in future.

He said he strongly supports the proposal and will continue to press for the project to materialise.

“Imagine a back alley once associated with illegal activity becoming an artistic tourism attraction and a popular check‑in spot. That would be a meaningful symbol of urban transformation.”

He added that such a project would not only improve the environment but could also attract more visitors and contribute positively to economic activity in the Kota Kinabalu city centre.

Loi acknowledged the problem has persisted for many years and said recent developments show promising progress.

However, he expressed hope that enforcement would continue consistently and not be limited to temporary operations, to prevent illegal activities from resurfacing once public attention wanes.

“Real change requires long‑term commitment and continuous monitoring. If all parties continue to work together in good faith, I believe the area can become a safer, cleaner and more vibrant part of Kota Kinabalu.”