Tawau: The Finance Ministry approved two weeks ago the 1.4km Bum Bum Bridge project to link Bum Bum Island to Semporna in the mainland costing RM430 million.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Shaziman Abu Mansor said after visiting the upgrading of the Jalan Sapulut-Kalabakan here, Tuesday, that this proved the Federal Government never sidelined any states in development.

"The Ministry also always listened to the suggestions of the Public Works Department (PWD) on the State's need to ensure its road network is well taken care of," he said.

The design for the bridge is expected to be completed within one year and RM25 million had been issued for the preliminary design of the project.

Besides that, he said the upgrading of the Tawau-Semporna road was also being done by the Federal Government for the convenience of the people.

The design of the 41km long stretch expected to cost RM420 million was currently being undertaken, he said, adding that similarly the Jalan Dam project in Lahad Datu (8.5km costing RM115m) was also being done.

On another note, he said the Marak-Parak road that connects Kota Marudu and Ranau could be used within two or three months from now.

--Courtesy of The Daily Express