Frequent landslides in the rural Kiulu area of Sabah are causing significant challenges for local tourism and the community. Recent road collapses have forced schoolchildren to navigate dangerous paths, impacting their daily lives. The situation has raised alarms among regional leaders, who are concerned about both safety and economic losses stemming from these incidents.
Kiulu assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai highlighted the severe impact on tour operators, reporting losses of RM200,000 due to cancellations. Travel agents now classify the area as high-risk, leading to a sharp decline in visitors. This downturn is particularly troubling for local businesses that rely on tourism, as many outdoor activities have been disrupted.
During a visit to the affected roads, Bangkuai stressed the urgency of repairing the infrastructure. He urged the Public Works Department to closely monitor the situation and respond quickly to any signs of potential landslides. The two main roads affected—Jalan Tamparuli-Kiulu and Jalan Kiulu-Lawa Mandau—have experienced significant damage, further isolating the community.
Bangkuai informed attendees that repairs are expected to take about two weeks. He has contacted state officials, including Deputy Chief Minister III, to expedite the process. The local government is aware of the economic stakes and is working to address the infrastructure issues as swiftly as possible.
Mejin Maginggow, president of the Kiulu Tourism Association, echoed Bangkuai’s concerns, emphasizing that repair delays will lead to more considerable losses for the tourism sector. With nature-based activities being the backbone of Kiulu’s tourism, ensuring safe and accessible roads is vital for the area’s economic recovery and sustainability – The Star
