By Marlynda Meraw
KUCHING, Dec 2: Traffic planning and temporary road arrangements near the main entrance of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) along the Kota Samarahan Expressway have been formally audited and received no objection, clarifies Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
During his ministerial winding up speech, Lee confirmed that prior to the implementation of any road diversion or modification, including the junction leading into UNIMAS, Sarawak Metro had prepared and implemented an approved Traffic Control Plan (TCP).
“The TCP, which was audited by a certified Road Safety Auditor received no objection from relevant technical agencies, including the Public Works Department (JKR),” said Lee in response to the concern raised by Stakan assemblyman Datuk Hamzah Brahim earlier on November 27.
He added that Sarawak Metro has held several coordination meetings with UNIMAS itself; with the sessions aimed at reviewing and refining the implemented TCP in the surrounding area, ensuring the temporary traffic arrangements are better aligned with UNIMAS’ internal traffic movements.
“My Ministry has engaged with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to ensure that enforcement and traffic behaviour issues are jointly monitored,” he told the august House during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting today.
Addressing the fatal accident that took place on October 21, 2025 near the UNIMAS traffic light junction along the Kuching-Samarahan Expressway, Lee said that preliminary findings indicate that the incident occurred along a straight section of the road and is currently categorised as a public road accident, which is under police investigation.
He stressed that traffic management measures and warning signages have consistently been in place; road users are repeatedly reminded to exercise caution, adhere to posted speed limits, and obey all directional and warning signs for their own safety and the safety of others.
“My Ministry together with Sarawak Metro and relevant enforcement agencies will continue to monitor the situation closely and ensure that all necessary safety measures are in place and comply with road safety standards,” he said.
Addressing another concern raised by the Stakan Assemblyman regarding traffic congestion and accident-prone conditions at the T-Junction of Jalan Berlian on the Kuching Outer Ring Road, Lee announced a concrete plan for improvement.
MOTS will implement a new Signalised Junction with Smart Traffic Lights at the Jalan Kuching Outer Ring/Jalan Berlian Junction, scheduled to be implemented by JKR Sarawak under the 13th Malaysia Plan in 2026, offering a long-term solution to improve safety and traffic flow at the intersection. — DayakDaily
