Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Federal government halts rural road projects in Sabah, Sarawak temporarily
A federal minister has clarified that rural road development initiatives in Sabah and Sarawak remain on hold rather than permanently scrapped. The temporary suspension aims to prevent the accumulation of outstanding payments.
LSN Malaysia ·

Rural road projects across Sabah and Sarawak have not been cancelled by the federal government, according to a ministerial statement issued today. Instead, the initiatives have been placed on hold as a precautionary measure to manage financial obligations more effectively.
The decision to suspend rather than terminate the projects reflects efforts to prevent arrears from mounting across the two states. Officials indicated that the temporary pause allows authorities time to address existing payment backlogs before resuming construction activities.
The clarification comes as stakeholders in both Sabah and Sarawak seek updates on infrastructure development timelines. Rural connectivity remains a priority for many communities in the states, where remote areas continue to depend on improved road networks to access essential services.
No specific timeline has been provided for when the projects might resume, though the government's distinction between suspension and cancellation suggests the possibility of future progression once financial constraints are addressed.