THE proposed Trans-Borneo Railway project is estimated to cost RM63.3 billion as opposed to the Kuala Lumpur–Singapore high-speed rail (HSR) which is expected to cost RM110 billion.
In making the comparison Lo Khere Chiang (Batu Kitang-GPS) said the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore railway would only serve to bring added comfort to elite travellers.
“I hope our Stampin MP (Chong Chieng Jen) can remind our federal Transport Minister that because Sarawak contributes RM80 billion annually to the national coffers, the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore railway project should be set aside for now and ensure that the Trans-Borneo Railway takes precedence,” he said.
In this context he said it is high time the federal government recognises the need to have a Trans-Borneo Railway to accelerate development and provide an alternative public transport option for Sarawak and Sabah.
Lo said the railway project is of utmost importance to boost Sarawak’s economy.
In addition to connecting cities around Borneo Island, he said, it can also provide access to the interior for mining operations and transportation of raw materials, thereby speeding up the development of the rural areas of Sarawak and Sabah.
He said that the rail is a smart, sustainable and efficient way to move freight and people.
“It is hoped that the federal government will not try to shelve the proposal based on their ‘lame excuses’ such as low population density in East Malaysia and non-profitability,” he said when debating the 2024 State Budget at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here Wednesday.
Lo said implementing public transport such as the one and only railway network in Sarawak should not be considered for profit at all, but as an investment by the federal government to improve the region’s wider economy.
“Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has been pushing for this proposal to go through and the federal Transport Minister has agreed to a feasibility study,” he said.
“However, we would like to emphasise the need for prompt and tangible action, not just the carrying out of years of feasibility studies, which could be flushed down the drain again and again anytime there is a change of government,” he added.
