By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 30: Bus operators, lorry operators and other land transport industry players should consider forming a consortium to participate in the management and operation of Rest and Service Areas (RSAs) along the Pan Borneo Highway through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach, said Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
He said industry players, as the primary users of these facilities, were well positioned to understand the operational requirements and needs of motorists and commercial vehicle operators.
“A PPP approach would enable the development of well-managed and commercially sustainable RSAs that not only provide quality services and enhance road safety, but also create new business opportunities for the transport industry,” he said in a statement today.
Lee highlighted this when speaking at the Ministry of Transport Sarawak’s (MOTS) dialogue and engagement session on the planning and enhancement of RSAs and layby facilities along the Pan Borneo Highway, held at a hotel here today.
The session brought together representatives from MOTS, the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) Sarawak, the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) Sarawak, as well as associations representing bus operators, lorry operators and other stakeholders in the land transport industry.
The engagement provided a platform for stakeholders to share their views, operational experiences and recommendations on improving roadside facilities along the Pan Borneo Highway.
Among the key issues discussed were the proposed locations for new RSAs and laybys, as well as the range of facilities required to better serve motorists and commercial vehicle operators.
These include petrol stations, vehicle servicing and repair workshops, pharmacies, food and beverage outlets, clean washrooms, adequate parking spaces for heavy vehicles, and other essential amenities.
Lee said the Pan Borneo Highway serves as a vital transport corridor for Sarawak, and its RSAs must be strategically located and equipped with facilities that meet the practical needs of all road users.
“Well-planned RSAs are more than just stopping points. They are an essential component of a safe, efficient and reliable road transport network. By working together with industry players, we can ensure these facilities are developed in a way that benefits both road users and the wider transport sector,” he said.
He also expressed his appreciation to all participating agencies and industry representatives for their constructive feedback and active participation during the engagement session.
The feedback and recommendations gathered during the dialogue will be compiled and evaluated by JKR Sarawak, which will subsequently prepare proposals for the development of new RSAs and laybys at strategic locations along the Pan Borneo Highway.
MOTS remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to enhance Sarawak’s transport infrastructure, improve road safety, and provide greater convenience and comfort for all road users.
Also present were Deputy Minister for Transport (Land and Aviation) Datuk Jerip Susil; CVLB Sarawak director Cornelia Wong Chui; MOTS Land Transport and Logistics Section head Chong Chi Fam; representatives from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development; and JKR Sarawak. — DayakDaily
