Kota Kinabalu: City Hall (DBKK) announced that the Tun Fuad Stephens Botanical Park in Bukit Padang will reopen to the public on Oct 27 (Monday), following a comprehensive assessment of the ongoing construction works in the area.
The reopening follows a Pre-Opening Brisk Walk Programme held recently to review the safety and suitability of the existing jogging paths for public use.
Findings from the inspection showed that construction activities along the jogging track no longer involve heavy works and are now focused mainly on finishing and complementary works.
Accordingly, the main jogging trail is now open to the public, subject to compliance with safety regulations and guidelines set by DBKK.
In addition, the hiking trails are also reopened, except for Hiking Trail No. 2, which remains closed as it passes through the Botanical Centre area where active construction is still ongoing.
The park’s operating hours are from 6am to 7pm daily, taking into account that construction works are still being carried out in other parts of the park.
However, DBKK emphasised that several areas remain completely closed to the public as they are still under construction and unsafe for use.
These areas include the Botanical Centre, Commercial Plaza, Boardwalk and Lake Walk, Conservatory Park and Bamboo Corner, and Herb Garden.
DBKK also stressed that any trespassing into restricted areas is strictly prohibited, and the City Hall will not be held responsible for any accidents or injuries resulting from violations of this prohibition.
During this period, DBKK is also installing information boards, warning signs and directional indicators throughout the park to ensure visitor safety and convenience.
Meanwhile, the contractor responsible for the Tun Fuad Stephens Botanical Park Development Project has been imposed with Liquidated Ascertained Damages (LAD) of RM2,704.61 per day, effective July 15, 2025, until all construction works are completed in full accordance with the specified standards and requirements.
DBKK hopes the public will cooperate fully by adhering to the safety instructions and maintaining the cleanliness of the park to ensure its sustainability and shared wellbeing.
