World · Malaysia Bureau
Sabah, Sarawak to receive nearly RM11b for rural roads through 2027
Federal allocations for rural road infrastructure in Sabah and Sarawak will nearly triple over the 2023-2027 period, according to the Finance Ministry. The substantial increase underscores the government's commitment to developing transport networks in the two East Malaysian states.
LSN Malaysia ·
Rural road development in Sabah and Sarawak is set to receive significantly enhanced funding, with allocations reaching nearly RM11 billion across the five-year period from 2023 to 2027. The marked increase represents a major commitment to infrastructure development in the two states, addressing longstanding transportation challenges in remote and rural areas.
Finance Ministry officials have emphasized that the substantial budget boost reflects the government's recognition of the importance of rural connectivity in East Malaysia. The investment is intended to improve access to essential services, support economic activity, and enhance quality of life for communities in outlying regions of both states.
The rural road programme forms part of broader infrastructure development initiatives targeting underserved areas across Malaysia. Officials have indicated that projects will prioritize roads connecting remote settlements to economic centers and essential services, with implementation to proceed progressively throughout the allocation period.
The commitment to increased rural road funding in Sabah and Sarawak addresses historical infrastructure gaps and aligns with national efforts to ensure equitable development across all regions of the country. State and federal authorities are expected to coordinate on project selection and implementation timelines to maximize the impact of the allocated resources.