Kota Kinabalu: Luyang Assemblyman Samuel Wong called on the relevant authorities to provide greater transparency on the cost structure regarding the RM11.8 million allocation for refurbishing 26 toilet sets at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA).
While welcoming efforts to improve facilities at Sabah’s primary gateway, Wong said the scale of expenditure has prompted public interest in understanding how the funds will be utilised to ensure prudent financial management and value for money.
“Improving airport facilities is necessary, but when public funds amounting to RM11.8 million are involved, the public has the right to know how the money is being spent,” he said in a statement, Friday.
Wong said based on announced figures, the average cost per toilet set appears to warrant further explanation from the implementing agency to address public concerns.
He said transparency should extend beyond announcing the total project value to include disclosure of the Bill of Quantities (BOQ) for the refurbishment works.
“The BOQ is a key construction document that itemises every component of a project, including materials, labour, scope of work and measurements. It ensures contractors are pricing the same scope of work and allows fair comparison during the tender process,” Wong said.
He noted that a clear breakdown would help the public understand the work scope and provide assurance that project costs are reasonable, necessary and aligned with proper financial governance.
Wong also acknowledged that toilet cleanliness and maintenance at KKIA have been longstanding concerns raised by travellers and locals, suggesting that systematic planning could help address such issues more effectively.
“Sabah’s airport is often the first impression visitors have of our region. While upgrades are important, they should be carried out with accountability, proper planning and clear justification of costs,” he said.
He urged Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) and relevant agencies to clarify the project scope, tender process and contractor appointment, and provide access to the detailed BOQ.
“The public supports upgrading facilities. What they seek is clarity and proper justification of spending,” he said.
He said KKIA represents Sabah’s standards of governance and projects involving significant public expenditure benefit from transparent processes that can withstand public scrutiny.
