KUCHING – Concerns over road safety have intensified following a fatal accident on the Kuching-Samarahan Expressway on 21 October 2025, which claimed one life and left two others injured near the Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) traffic lights.
During the debate on the Supply Bill (2026) at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly, Stakan Assemblyman Dato Hamzah Brahim highlighted that diversions linked to the Kuching Urban Transformation System (KUTS) project have created hazardous conditions for motorists.
He urged the Sarawak Ministry of Transport (MOTS), Sarawak Metro, and the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) to investigate the root causes and implement urgent safety measures.
Hamzah stressed that proactive steps are essential to prevent further tragedies. “Road safety is not only the responsibility of users, but also of the authorities. Proactive action can save lives and ensure safer travel,” he said.
He also raised concerns about congestion at the southern access road to Kuching International Airport (LTAK), which currently operates with a single lane in each direction.
The assemblyman proposed upgrading the road to two lanes to ease traffic flow and reduce accident risks, particularly during peak hours.
Additional recommendations included installing street lights in poorly lit areas, placing guardrails along Jalan Datuk Mohd Musa, and introducing traffic signals at the Jalan Berlian T-junction. These measures, he argued, are critical to improving safety standards across Kuching and Samarahan.
Beyond road safety, Hamzah expressed full support for the Sarawak Budget 2026, themed “Empowering People, Advancing Prosperity, Building a Resilient Future.”
The budget, tabled at RM14.9 billion, allocates RM5.6 billion for operating expenditure and RM9.3 billion for development projects, with a projected surplus of RM144 million.
Hamzah praised Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Openg for presenting a comprehensive plan that addresses infrastructure, digital transformation, and community welfare.
He emphasised that the budget reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, benefiting youth, farmers, civil servants, and rural communities alike.
The assemblyman’s remarks underline the dual priorities of ensuring immediate public safety while supporting long-term development strategies.
His call for urgent road safety interventions comes as Sarawak continues to balance infrastructure expansion with the wellbeing of its citizens.
