Semporna lacks basic infra despite being international tourist spot
Published on: Wed, Jul 09, 2025
By: Sisca Humphrey Text Size: Dr Jaujan also used the opportunity to question the State Government's broader planning approach, pointing to the RM1.18 billion being requested under the Supplementary Supply Bill 2025, on top of the RM6 billion already approved. Kota Kinabalu: Sulabayan Assemblyman Datuk Dr Jaujan Sambakong criticised the lack of basic infrastructure in Semporna despite it being one of Sabah's top tourism destinations, saying the town still lacks a proper jetty even as thousands of tourists arrive daily. 'Semporna is already considered an international tourist attraction. But our tourism jetty is still made of wood. 'There's no proper platform and the boats are docking in disorganised spots,' he said during the State Legislative Assembly debate. He said the situation was not just inconvenient but also posed safety risks. He also noted that many tourists were coming from China, Peninsular Malaysia and neighbouring countries, with up to 2,000-3,000 people arriving each day. 'If 80 per cent of tourists coming to Sabah are going to Semporna, then where is the investment from the Ministry of Tourism or the local government?' he said. Dr Jaujan said his recent visit to Semporna revealed multiple issues, from poor road conditions within the district council area to clogged drains that were left unattended. 'Jalan Masbah looks more like gravel than a paved road. Even the drains are clogged with grass cuttings and rubbish dumped by contractors,' he said. He added that neither the district council nor the local engineer could give a clear answer about who is responsible for the upkeep of basic infrastructure. Dr Jaujan also used the opportunity to question the State Government's broader planning approach, pointing to the RM1.18 billion being requested under the Supplementary Supply Bill 2025, on top of the RM6 billion already approved. 'This supplementary request is among the largest we've seen. It makes me think the original budget wasn't planned carefully. 'It looked more like an estimate than a detailed financial plan,' he said, adding that while the opposition supports what is necessary, there must be accountability. 'We're not here to oppose everything. But it must really match what the people need,' he said. He also questioned whether the State could implement the additional budget effectively, given that the year is already halfway through. 'It's already July. By the time projects start, it will be October or November. Can these funds even be spent properly?' he asked. He demanded clarity on how much of the initial RM6 billion has been used and pointed to the Rumah Mesra SMJ housing project as an example where updates are unclear. 'People are asking what's been completed. Inside and outside the DUN, everyone is asking. 'We, too, need answers so we can explain why things haven't improved in five years,' Jaujan said. He warned that continuing to pass large budgets without delivery would reflect badly not only on the government but also on elected representatives. 'This budget looks more like supply than development. No problem supporting it, but we must make sure it leads to visible outcomes,' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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