Ewon welcomes study on Putatan–KKIP–Sepanggar rail link

KOTA KINABALU (Dec 9): Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick has welcomed the implementation of a Feasibility Study and Preliminary Design for a railway system linking Putatan to the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) and Sepanggar Port.

Ewon, who is also Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Minister, said the study is important in determining a new direction for the state’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 that improved connectivity is crucial, especially in linking Sabah’s industrial parks with ports throughout the state.

“The findings will provide important input in determining the new direction for the state’s rail transport system, including support for Sabah’s industrial and logistics development agenda,” he said during a press conference after a working visit to the Sabah State Railway Department (JKNS) on Tuesday.

Regarding the Feasibility Study for the Trans Borneo Railway Project currently underway, Ewon said the ministry would provide additional views to ensure Sabah’s interests are prioritised in the Trans Borneo study.

“The Sabah State Railway Department has submitted its views, giving priority to 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 and other studies related to improving the rail system and assets.

“In terms of revenue, JKNS currently collects around RM1.2 million a year. With the studies being conducted and planned, I believe the government can formulate a new direction to increase revenue without neglecting the department’s role in providing services to the people,” he said.

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

“I want to see a long-term vision in which rail transport becomes the main mode of mobility for the people of Sabah. JKNS has been making efforts towards this, and I will continue to support all plans 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 Mohammad Safri said the Feasibility Study for the Trans Borneo Railway Project will be carried out over 12 months and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

The Feasibility and Preliminary Design Study for the Putatan–KKIP–Sepanggar Port Railway System will begin soon and is expected to be completed 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.