BY ARIANA FIDELIA
MIRI: The Sarawak-Sabah Road Network (SSLR) Phase Two project, which costs RM7 billion, is expected to help improve connectivity between the two states.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the project is also aimed at providing safer road access for its users.
He added that the SSLR is also implemented because the Pan Borneo Highway, which has only been completed for a few kilometres (KM), is not included in the project and is called the Red Line.
“The Red Line was originally in excellent condition, but after eight years, several routes now require repairs.
“In this regard, an allocation of RM120 million has been approved to rehabilitate the Red Line, and construction work at several locations is expected to begin in 2025.
“The Red Line covers a route of 136 km, and it will be implemented in stages since the actual cost required is around RM700 million,” he said.
Nanta said this at a press conference after opening the 2nd Edition of the Borneo Infrastructure Symposium here today.
Meanwhile, he also stressed the development of several Rest and Care (R&R) areas along the Pan Borneo Highway.
He said that although the facilities have been built, challenges still exist in attracting operators to operate services in the area.