BINTULU: Litterbugs along the Pan Borneo Highway will no longer get off easy, with stricter enforcement and heavier fines to be imposed.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said Sarawak was fortunate to enjoy the multibillion-ringgit highway without tolls, unlike in peninsula.
He noted that while Sarawakians enjoyed it for free, the privilege came with a greater responsibility to safeguard the highway.
“I have directed the placement of more rubbish bins, stricter enforcement of the law, and fines for those who refuse to comply.
“Education will continue, but firmness is also necessary, so that our message truly gets across,” he said when officiating at the Pan Borneo Sarawak ‘Jaga Pan Borneo Bait-Bait’ Cleanliness Campaign here today.
The Kapit Member of Parliament said the more than 2,000-kilometre highway provided travel comfort, reduced journey times, and made everyday life easier for the people.
He stressed that Pan Borneo was not just a road, but the lifeline of development, connecting towns and rural areas, uniting communities, and serving as the backbone of Sarawak’s economy.
“This is the road that links opportunities, jobs, education and healthcare for our people.
“From Telok Melano in the south to Miri in the north, Pan Borneo opens new doors for trade, tourism and social ties.
“My heart is full of gratitude as this is the progress long awaited by Sarawakians,” he added.
As such, Nanta called on Sarawakians to treat Pan Borneo’s cleanliness as a shared duty, in line with the MYJalan aspiration – ‘our road, our shared responsibility’.
“Do not wait for others to begin – start with yourself!” he stressed.
Bintulu-Miri.
