Ewon welcomes feasibility study for Putatan–KKIP–Sepanggar railway link

KOTA KINABALU (Dec 9): Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick has welcomed the implementation of the feasibility study and preliminary design for a proposed railway system linking Putatan to the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) and Sepanggar Port.

Ewon, who is also the Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Minister, said the study is crucial in determining the future direction of Sabah’s rail transport system.

“I welcome JKNS’s intention to begin this study in the near future. I want to review the findings, as I believe improved connectivity is essential, especially in linking Sabah’s industrial parks with ports across the state,” he said during a press conference after a working visit to the Sabah State Railway Department (JKNS) on Tuesday.

He said the findings would provide key input toward determining the state’s new rail development direction, particularly in supporting Sabah’s industrial and logistics agenda.

On the ongoing feasibility study for the Trans Borneo Railway Project, Ewon said the ministry would provide additional views to ensure Sabah’s interests are prioritised.

“The Sabah State Railway Department has submitted its views, giving priority to ports throughout the state — namely in Tawau, Lahad Datu, Sandakan, Kudat and Kota Kinabalu,” he said.

Ewon also welcomed the review of railway service fare rates and other studies aimed at improving the rail system and assets.

“In terms of revenue, JKNS currently collects around RM1.2 million a year. With these studies underway, I believe the government can determine a new direction to increase revenue without compromising JKNS’s responsibility to serve the public,” he said.

He added that his ministry would continue efforts to strengthen rail services as a preferred mode of transport for Sabahans.

“I want to see a long-term vision in which rail becomes the main mode of mobility for the people of Sabah. JKNS has been working toward this, and I will continue to support all plans to upgrade facilities and services,” he said.

Ewon also expressed hope that the Sabah First team within JKNS would continue to be strengthened to ensure safe, efficient and high-quality services.

Meanwhile, JKNS director Mohammad Safri said the feasibility study for the Trans Borneo Railway project would take 12 months and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

The feasibility and preliminary dsign study for the Putatan–KKIP–Sepanggar Port railway line will begin soon and is also expected to conclude within 12 months.

During the visit, Mohammad briefed the delegation on current services, challenges and new departmental initiatives.

Also present were Assistant Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Minister Datuk Jonnybone J. Kurum, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Datuk Thomas Logijin, as well as ministry and JKNS officials.