Developers in Kota Kinabalu have been urged to work only with certified consultants following complaints of poor construction quality allegedly linked to foreign firms.

Mayor Datuk Sabin Samitah said the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) relies on consultants’ certifications when issuing Occupational Certificates (OC) for completed buildings, and these consultants must adhere to standards set by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB).

“Foreign companies rely on local consultants to submit OC applications with DBKK,” he said during an event with local media in Kota Kinabalu on Thursday. 

“It’s their (the consultants) responsibility to ensure the construction complies with regulations.”

The mayor’s remarks followed allegations raised by Sabah Tour and Travel Agents chairman Datuk Seri Winston Liaw, who said he had received numerous complaints about subpar workmanship by Chinese contractors. 

Liaw also called on the local Chinese consulate general to address the issue.

While Sabin acknowledged the possibility of construction flaws, he refrained from confirming any wrongdoing in the submission of OC applications to DBKK. 

He stressed that the city hall adheres to CIDB guidelines when issuing certificates and if all of the criterias checks out he sees “no problem” in issuing the OCs.

“It is best to get all the reports so I can get the response from the specific departments in DBKK,” Sabin said. 

Liaw also called for heightened oversight in the construction industry, raising concerns about accountability and the quality of work being delivered in the city. 

Meanwhile, Sabin said DBKK had submitted a proposal to the state Economic Planning Unit (UPEN) on a comprehensive public transport system to be included in the 13th Malaysia Plan. 

He was aware that the traffic gridlock has worsened as residents prefer driving their own cars into the city.  – January 24, 2025