Landslides-prone Kiulu road need attention

Joniston at the scene of a landslide

24 October 2024

KOTA KINABALU: Kiulu Assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai has raised serious concerns about the frequent road collapses caused by landslides along the Kiulu road, emphasising their significant inconveniences and economic impact.

Two critical routes, Jalan Tamparuli-Kiulu near Kampung Malangang and Jalan Kiulu-Lawa Mandau near Pekan Kiulu, have been severely affected, disrupting access and impacting both the local community and the tourism sector.

During a recent site visit, Joniston, accompanied by Public Works Department (JKR) contractors, assessed the situation and learned that the subsidence on Jalan Tamparuli-Kiulu is substantial, with repairs expected to take over two weeks. He was joined by local community leaders and Mejin Maginggow, president of the Kiulu Tourism Association.

In light of these developments, the Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment contacted Deputy Chief Minister and Sabah Works Minister Datuk Shahelmy Yahya to advocate for expedited repair efforts.

"I appreciate the Deputy Chief Minister for acknowledging our concerns and referring the matter to JKR for urgent action," Joniston stated. He also thanked the Tuaran district JKR office for proactively ensuring the safety of road users.

Joniston highlighted the necessity of swift action to restore access and support the local economy, particularly the tourism sector, which has already suffered losses exceeding RM200,000 due to tour cancellations.

"Tour operators in Kiulu are facing a significant downturn, as travel agents have classified the area as high-risk following the landslides. Cancellations have affected various outdoor activities, and if repairs are not completed promptly, the financial ramifications could worsen," he warned.

He urged JKR and concession contractors to regularly monitor the roads in Kiulu, enabling immediate intervention at the first signs of potential landslides or subsidence.

"This is essential to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of commuters, especially students," he emphasised, calling for collaboration between local authorities and the government to mitigate the impact.

Meanwhile, Mejin echoed these sentiments, noting that prolonged repairs would lead to even greater losses for the tourism industry, which heavily relies on nature-based activities.