Nanta vows improved delivery after audit findings on Sabah Pan Borneo Highway

Works Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi acknowledged the serious findings of the 2026 auditor-general's report on the Sabah Pan Borneo Highway project's Phase 1 completion. As of August 25, only four out of the 35 work packages had been completed, while the remaining 31 remain under implementation. Project delays were attributed to factors such as a change from the project delivery partner (PDP) model to a conventional method, the Covid-19 pandemic, land acquisition issues, utility relocation, and contractor performance.

Cost increases were mainly due to project extension, scope changes, construction contract prices, and unresolved land and utility issues. Nanta informed that the ministry and Sabah Public Works Department (JKR) officers would attend administration and contract management courses to improve project delivery skills. A steering committee, formed in November 2024, continues to strengthen monitoring through site visit programs and was co-chaired by the ministry secretary-general and Sabah state secretary for enhanced coordination among state agencies.