Make developers pay for roads damaged by construction, Stakan rep tells Sarawak gov’t

Datuk Hamzah Brahim debating on Supply Bill (2027) 2026 or Sarawak Budget 2027 in Sarawak Legislative Assembly sitting on Oct 15, 2026. Photo: Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS)

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Oct 15: Stakan assemblyman Datuk Hamzah Brahim has proposed requiring developers to place security deposits with the Sarawak government before starting construction projects, with the funds used to repair roads damaged by their activities.

He said developers should be held accountable for damage caused by their construction vehicles instead of leaving local communities to endure deteriorating roads and the inconvenience that comes with development.

“I propose that the Sarawak government impose a condition requiring contractors and developers to provide a guarantee to the government, so that if the roads are damaged, the money can be used to repair them,” he said when debating the Supply Bill (2027) 2026 or Sarawak Budget 2027 in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting here today.

Citing a housing development in his own constituency, Hamzah said the developer had failed to respond to repeated complaints about a damaged road, despite the damage allegedly being caused by vehicles used for the project.

“When we called, there was no response. When questioned, they said it was a government road, even though it was damaged by their company’s vehicles during the development,” he said.

Hamzah said he had been pursuing the matter for several months, but the developer only carried out some repairs the week before the sitting.

He said the incident showed the need for a stronger mechanism to ensure developers could not evade responsibility for damage caused by their projects.

Hamzah urged the Sarawak government, particularly the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government (MPHLG), to tighten regulations and consider introducing legislation requiring developers to provide security deposits before commencing construction.

“This is to ensure that any damage to roads and other infrastructure can be properly addressed afterwards,” he added. — DayakDaily