KOTA KINABALU, 5 March 2026 (The Capital Post)— A recent runaway train incident along the Tenom–Pangi railway line has highlighted the urgent need for improved infrastructure and safer transport alternatives in Sabah’s interior, a Warisan assemblyman said.
The Melalap representative said the frightening episode should serve as a clear warning that immediate steps are needed to address long-standing transportation challenges faced by communities in the area.
The incident involved a train carrying passengers, including teachers travelling to a rural school, when the carriage reportedly experienced brake failure along the mountainous route. A potential tragedy was averted when nearby villagers intervened by placing a motorcycle trolley on the tracks to help bring the train to a stop.
The assemblyman praised the villagers’ quick thinking but stressed that relying on such actions highlighted the vulnerability of the railway service, which remains a critical transport lifeline for residents and civil servants in the region.
He also renewed calls for the expedited construction of the proposed Tenom–Pangi road, describing it as an essential alternative that would reduce heavy reliance on the rail line and improve safety for commuters in the remote area.
Authorities have been urged to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident while ensuring better maintenance and reliability of rail infrastructure to prevent similar occurrences in the future.-The Capital Post
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