Kudat: The federal government has been urged to consider constructing a paved or concrete road stretching about 37 kilometers from Kampung Meliu to Kampung Dogoton on Pulau Banggi, Kudat, at an estimated cost of more than RM300 million.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Mohamad Mohamarin (GRS-Banggi) stated that the proposal, planned for implementation in three phases, was submitted to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during his visit to Pulau Banggi on May 9. The project aims to improve connectivity on the island, which currently has about 81 kilometers of main roads, only 14 kilometers of which are paved and now in a dilapidated condition.

Mohamad emphasized the urgency of upgrading the existing 14 kilometers of road, which is riddled with potholes and has been the site of several fatal accidents. He questioned whether this crucial upgrade is included in this year's budget or implementation plan, during his debate on the Supplementary Supply Bill 2026 at the Sabah State Legislative Assembly sitting.

The representative highlighted that the 81-kilometer total excludes roads on Pulau Balambangan, Tanjung Manawali, Pulau Sibogo, and Pulau Tigabu, all within the Banggi constituency. Despite several development projects announced during visits by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and the Prime Minister to Pulau Banggi, Mohamad pointed out the need for substantial funding to address long-standing infrastructure issues.

In addition to road development, Mohamad urged the state government to consider initiating a wind energy project with a capacity of between 15 and 50 megawatts to enhance electricity supply and stimulate economic activities on the island.