Driver Injured After Sandakan–Lahad Datu Road Collapses During Heavy Rain in Sabah

KUALA LUMPUR, May 2026 — A driver sustained minor injuries after a section of the Sandakan–Lahad Datu main road collapsed following heavy rain near the Sukau Roundabout in Kinabatangan, Sabah.

The incident reportedly occurred at Km 90 of the main road early Tuesday morning, affecting an area that is currently part of ongoing Rest and Relaxation, or R&R, construction works.

According to the Sabah Public Works Department, the road collapse happened at around 5am after continuous rainfall caused instability at the site. The incident involved a car that was travelling along the affected stretch when part of the road gave way.

Kinabatangan District Police Chief Supt Ravi Duraisamy said early information indicated that the collapse was linked to a groundwater swell caused by prolonged heavy rain in the area.

He said the vehicle was involved in an accident at the location, but no serious injuries were reported. The driver and passengers were later taken to Hospital Kinabatangan for medical treatment.

The road collapse has disrupted traffic along one of Sabah’s important east coast routes, which connects Sandakan and Lahad Datu. The route is frequently used by local residents, commercial vehicles and travellers moving between districts.

Authorities said an alternative lane has been opened to allow traffic to pass through the affected area. However, the temporary route is currently only suitable for light vehicles, making the stretch impassable for heavy vehicles.

This means lorries, buses and other large vehicles may need to use alternative arrangements or wait for further updates from the relevant authorities before proceeding through the area.

A contractor appointed under the Pan Borneo Highway project has also constructed a diversion lane to help ease traffic flow and reduce congestion at the affected location.

The incident highlights the impact of heavy rain on road safety and infrastructure, especially in areas undergoing construction or road upgrading works. Continuous rainfall can weaken soil structure, increase groundwater pressure and raise the risk of road subsidence or slope failure.

Motorists using the Sandakan–Lahad Datu route have been urged to remain cautious, especially when passing through construction zones or areas affected by bad weather.

Drivers are advised to slow down, follow traffic instructions at the site and stay alert for any further road damage, diversion signs or instructions from enforcement personnel.

The authorities are expected to continue monitoring the affected stretch to ensure safety and restore smoother traffic movement once repair and stabilisation works are completed.

The collapse serves as a reminder for road users in Sabah to take extra precautions during periods of heavy rain, particularly along major routes that pass through rural, low-lying or construction-affected areas.