KOTA KINABALU: Residents are urging the relevant authorities to take immediate and sustained action against illegal vehicle activities and excessive noise along Jalan Bandar Utama 1 in Sandakan, saying repeated complaints to the police have yet to resolve the problem.
Residents expressed appreciation for the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) patrols that have responded to their complaints, but said the relief was often short-lived. Those involved would reportedly disperse when police arrived, only to return shortly afterwards and resume their activities.
The stretch of Jalan Bandar Utama 1 has become a growing concern, with groups of vehicles, including modified cars, pickup trucks and motorcycles, allegedly engaging in activities that disturb residents and pose potential safety risks.
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These include testing excessively loud exhaust and sound systems, using simulated police sirens, driving vehicles with extremely lowered or adjustable suspensions, and installing unauthorised lighting.
Recent reports of road accidents and dangerous driving have further heightened residents’ concerns. Without decisive and sustained intervention by the relevant authorities and the developer, they fear a serious accident resulting in injuries or loss of life could occur.
One concerned resident said he had repeatedly proposed since last year that speed bumps be installed along the stretch of road marked in red on an accompanying map.
He said traffic-calming measures could help curb speeding, deter illegal drag racing and discourage dangerous motorcycle stunts.
He urged the relevant authorities to give the proposal serious consideration and introduce appropriate measures as soon as possible to prevent a potentially avoidable tragedy.
Residents also believe the rapid expansion of Bandar Utama warrants consideration of a dedicated community police post, or pondok polis, in the area.
They said a permanent police presence could strengthen community safety, enable more consistent monitoring and serve as a deterrent to repeat offenders. It could also facilitate a more effective and timely response to residents’ complaints.
Residents said they should not have to endure persistent noise pollution or fear that reckless driving and dangerous road activities could put lives at risk.
They are calling for a coordinated and sustained response from the developer, PDRM and the relevant local authorities to address the problem, improve road safety and restore peace and order along Jalan Bandar Utama 1.