TAWAU: The State Government has officially instructed the Public Works Department (PWD) to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to address the worsening traffic congestion in Tawau, particularly along the stretch between the town centre and Jalan Apas.
The directive, issued by the Chief Minister, aims to evaluate the effectiveness of technical proposals designed to improve long-term traffic flow in Sabah’s third-largest town.
Youth, Sports and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said the study would focus on three major infrastructure projects that could significantly transform mobility in the area.
“The first project is the introduction of the Tawau Bypass, a shortcut designed to divert traffic from the town centre and densely populated areas along Jalan Apas,” he said during a briefing on State Government policies and the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 agenda at Hotel Royal Borneo on Monday.
The second proposal involves constructing two pedestrian overpasses at key congestion points, namely Bulatan Keris Batu 4 Jalan Apas and Takada, which are major sources of peak-hour traffic jams.
“The third crucial measure is the construction of the Tawau Coastal Highway, which will serve as an alternative route and act as a catalyst for economic growth in Tawau’s coastal areas,” he added.
Nizam said all three projects are currently under thorough technical feasibility studies and economic impact assessments for local residents.
He also said the RM130 million government investment to upgrade Tawau Airport, scheduled for completion in 2028, which will increase terminal capacity from 1.5 million to 2.5 million passengers annually.
“The expansion includes additional aerobridges and apron improvements to strengthen Tawau’s position as an international gateway, boosting tourism, trade, and seafood export logistics,” he said.
Nizam further noted that Tawau is being developed as a cultural city through the Tawau International Cultural Centre (TICC), and that the Blue Economy concept under SMJ 2.0 will leverage the town’s coastal location to advance smart fisheries, modern mariculture, and sustainable marine biotechnology.
He urged local authorities and stakeholders to address social issues such as the humane resettlement of squatter areas while ensuring that essential services including water, electricity, and roads reach all residents, stressing that the success of these projects depends on effective service delivery.
