Ewon: RM16.8m Timpangoh–Babagon Bridge completed over three months ahead of schedule

“PENAMPANG, May 24 — The RM16.8 million Timpangoh-Babagon Bridge project has been completed more than three months ahead of schedule, providing a major boost to economic activities and connectivity for residents in Mukim Babagon. Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said the project, which was originally scheduled for completion in July this year, was certified as completed by the Public Works Department (JKR) in April. “What is special about this project is that it was completed ahead of the original schedule, and this sends a message that development projects can also be implemented earlier than the stipulated timeframe,” he told reporters after officiating at the opening of the bridge in conjunction with the Penampang Agricultural Zone Kaamatan celebration. The groundbreaking ceremony for the bridge was held in June 2024, he added. According to the Penampang MP, thousands of residents in Mukim Babagon previously depended on a low-level crossing that often became impassable whenever the water level of Sungai Moyog rose during heavy rain. He said the completion of the bridge would significantly improve economic activities in the area, particularly for agricultural communities. “The Timpangoh-Babagon Bridge will become a game changer for economic activities here. Previously, residents relied on the low-level crossing, but when the river water level rose, students and villagers could not pass through. “With the completion of this bridge, agricultural produce can now be transported out 24 hours a day, while government agencies can also access villages in this agricultural zone at any time,” he said. In another development, Ewon said SMK Kipovo in Kampung Babagon is expected to begin operations next year. He said although the area still faces water supply issues due to delays in the implementation of the Moyog rural water supply project, the state government has approved a special allocation of RM7.3 million to channel water supply to the school. The allocation, approved by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, will cover the installation of pipelines and water distribution from Kampung Madsiang to SMK Kipovo. “I greatly appreciate the Chief Minister’s decision in approving this special allocation and I am confident the Water Department, as the implementing agency, will be able to begin the procurement process this year. “When the school opens next year, the water supply is also expected to be ready,” he said. Ewon added that various small- and medium-scale development projects involving tourism, agriculture and land ownership are also being implemented in the area for the benefit of villagers. He said the state government remains committed to implementing rural development initiatives under the Penampang Development Plan 2024-2035. “With strong support from Moyog assemblyman Datuk Donald Peter Mojuntin, as well as cooperation from grassroots leaders, village security and development committees (JKKK), village heads, religious leaders, non-governmental organisations and the people as a whole, the planned development aspirations will be easier to implement,” he said. — The Borneo Post

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