Kota Kinabalu: Liawan Assemblyman Datuk Nik Mohd Nazri Nik Zamawi called on the State Government to prioritise basic infrastructure, such as road upgrades, flood mitigation, and irrigation systems, warning that development without strong foundations would only remain “a slogan.”
He said many roads in Liawan, including Jalan Gaulan, Jalan Sigapon and Jalan Lama Tenom- Keningau, remained in poor condition despite repeated requests over the years.
“If the foundation of a house is cracked, no matter how tall it is built, it remains unsafe. The same applies to development when the basic needs of the people are neglected,” he said.
Nik Mohd Nazri said rural farm roads, or Jalan Kebun, should be viewed as economic investments rather than financial burdens, as they have a direct impact on farmers’ livelihoods and food security.
“When farm roads are muddy and impassable, transport costs rise, crops are damaged or left behind, and farmers’ incomes decline. This is not a small issue – it is about survival,” he said.
He also highlighted recurring floods in Keningau and Liawan, attributing them to outdated drainage systems and shallow, silted rivers, such as Sungai Pagalan, Sungai Pampang, Sungai Agudon, Sungai Mosolo, Sungai Keritan and Sungai Lakoyan.
He urged the Government to implement long-term solutions instead of temporary repairs.
“The Budget must provide sufficient allocation for permanent flood mitigation so that the same problem does not recur every rainy season,” he said.
While welcoming the RM157.13 million allocation for the Sabah Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Nik Mohd Nazri urged that priority be given to upgrading paddy irrigation systems in flood-prone villages.
“Each time flooding occurs, irrigation structures are damaged, and rice crops are affected due to the disrupted water supply. This problem has dragged on for far too long,” he said.
He also raised concerns about malfunctioning streetlights in Keningau town, saying poor lighting negatively impacted public safety, nighttime economic activities, and the town’s image.
“Although this may seem like a small matter, its impact on public safety and the local economy is significant,” he said.
