Warisan leader questions RM11.8 KKIA toilet upgrade, calls for transparency

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 2): The public deserves a full explanation on how RM11.8 million will be spent on upgrading 26 toilets at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), said Parti Warisan’s Wira chief Terence Au.

While acknowledging the need to improve public facilities, Au said the cost involved raises serious questions that must be addressed openly by the relevant authorities.

“I do not reject the need to upgrade public amenities. However, the cost involved warrants serious scrutiny and deserves a transparent explanation,” he said in a statement.

He noted that the amount averages about RM453,000 per toilet.

“The public has the right to know the actual scope of work carried out, how the costs were determined, and whether comparisons were made with similar projects at other airports to ensure the expenditure is reasonable and provides value for public funds,” he said.

Au added that general explanations such as phased implementation or 24-hour cleaning operations do not adequately answer the key question of why the cost per toilet is approaching half a million ringgit.

“Toilets can be replaced, but lives cannot. Runway safety must always come first,’” he said, stressing that priorities should focus on safety-related aspects, including the maintenance and upgrading of runways and other critical infrastructure.

“At a time when many Sabahans are still grappling with poor road conditions, dilapidated schools, limited healthcare facilities, and frequent water supply disruptions; every major expenditure must be accompanied by clear justification and full transparency,” he reiterated.

He urged the authorities to disclose a full breakdown of the costs involved, along with a clear explanation of spending priorities, so that the public can assess whether the project truly delivers value for money.