JELUKONG: More Rest and Service Areas (R&R) and lay-bys are needed along the Pan Borneo Highway to enhance road safety, improve travel comfort and support the growing volume of traffic across Sarawak.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said adequate R&R facilities are crucial as the Pan Borneo Highway is the state’s main land transport corridor, facilitating the movement of people and goods throughout the state.
He said R&R facilities and lay-bys not only provide motorists with a place to rest but also help reduce the risk of accidents caused by driver fatigue.
Lee said this during a visit to the Jelukong R&R along the Pan Borneo Highway recently.
He also encouraged motorists, particularly those travelling long distances, to make full use of the facilities.
“Driver fatigue is one of the contributing factors to road accidents, particularly on long journeys. Therefore, stopping to rest for a while can help reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer journey,” he said.
During the visit, Lee received a briefing from officers of the Sarawak Public Works Department (PWD Sarawak) on the existing facilities, maintenance and operations at the R&R.
He also inspected the site’s layout and amenities before discussing potential improvements with the relevant agencies to further enhance users’ comfort, convenience and safety.
The visit followed an engagement session between the Sarawak Ministry of Transport and transport industry stakeholders on plans to strengthen R&R facilities and lay-bys along the Pan Borneo Highway.
Lee said the ministry would continue working closely with PWD Sarawak and relevant agencies to ensure R&R facilities remain well-maintained, safe and fully operational for the benefit of road users across the state.
