KUCHING: Bus operators, lorry operators and other land transport industry players have been urged to consider forming a consortium to participate in the management and operation of Rest & Service Areas (RSAs) along the Pan Borneo Highway through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach, said Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.

He said industry players, as the primary users of these facilities, are best placed to understand the operational needs of motorists and commercial vehicle operators.

"A PPP approach would enable the development of well managed, commercially sustainable RSAs that not only provide quality services and enhance road safety, but also create new business opportunities for the transport industry," he said.

Dato Sri Lee said this when officiating the Sarawak Ministry for Transport (MOTS) dialogue and engagement session on the planning and enhancement of RSAs and layby facilities along the Pan Borneo Highway, held here, on Wednesday.

The engagement brought together representatives from MOTS, the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) Sarawak, the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) Sarawak, as well as associations representing bus operators, lorry operators and other stakeholders in the land transport industry.

The dialogue provided a platform for stakeholders to share their views and operational experiences on improving roadside facilities along the Pan Borneo Highway.

Among the key issues discussed were the proposed locations for new RSAs and laybys, as well as the range of facilities that should be provided, including petrol stations, vehicle servicing and repair workshops, pharmacies, food and beverage outlets, clean washrooms, adequate parking spaces for heavy vehicles, and other essential amenities to better serve motorists and commercial vehicle operators.

Dato Sri Lee said the Pan Borneo Highway is a vital transport corridor for Sarawak, and it is important that its RSAs are strategically located and equipped with facilities that meet the practical needs of all road users.

“Well-planned Rest & Service Areas are more than just stopping points. They are an essential part of a safe, efficient and reliable road transport network. By working together with industry players, we can ensure these facilities are developed in a way that benefits both road users and the wider transport sector,” he said.

He also expressed his appreciation to all participating agencies and industry representatives for their constructive feedback and active participation during the engagement session.

The feedback and recommendations gathered during the dialogue will be compiled and evaluated by JKR Sarawak, which will subsequently prepare proposals for the development of new RSAs and laybys at strategic locations along the Pan Borneo Highway.

MOTS remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to enhance Sarawak’s transport infrastructure, improve road safety, and provide greater convenience and comfort for all road users.

Also present were MOTS Deputy Minister Datuk Jerip Susil, CVLB Sarawak Director Cornelia Wong Chui and MOTS Land Transport and Logistic Section Head of Division Chong Chi Fam, representatives from the Ministry for Infrastructure and Port Development and JKR Sarawak. -UKASnews