Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called for immediate and proactive measures from the Public Works Department (JKR) and relevant agencies to address the persistent issue of damaged roads in Sabah, which continue to pose significant inconveniences and dangers to the public.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hajiji emphasized the need for JKR and other responsible entities to act before accidents occur, rather than waiting for incidents, complaints, or official directives to initiate corrective action. His comments were made in reference to a recent fatal accident in Kota Kinabalu, where a motorcyclist tragically lost his life after encountering a pothole.

Hajiji stressed the importance of regular and thorough road inspections to ensure the safety of road users. He highlighted that the government, and not just the ministry or department, would face criticism for any negligence. He was speaking at the New Year’s mandate for civil servants, where Deputy Chief Ministers Datuk Seri Dr. Jeffrey Kitingan and Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam, State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong, and Sabah Federal Secretary Datuk Seri Rosli Isa were also present.

The fatal accident on February 3 involved a motorcyclist in his 30s, who lost his life when his motorcycle skidded after hitting a pothole near the Lido flyover, Jalan Lintas, in Kota Kinabalu.

Hajiji also addressed concerns regarding the state’s water supply management, noting that Sabah is currently experiencing a 60 per cent non-revenue water (NRW) rate due to inefficient management and water theft in squatter areas. He acknowledged that this issue is a long-standing problem inherited from previous administrations but urged the Sabah Water Department (JANS) to take proactive steps in resolving it.

He pointed out that a significant amount of clean water is being lost and stressed the responsibility of JANS to identify and tackle the root causes of this issue. While acknowledging efforts to reduce NRW by cutting illegal connections, Hajiji questioned the sustainability of these measures and called for thorough solutions to prevent water theft and ensure consistent access for the people.

Hajiji urged authorities to promptly address the root causes of the state’s water supply challenges and provide clear explanations to the public.