Pahang Sultan joins call for construction of LTU Expressway R&R

PETALING JAYA: The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has joined the call for construction of rest and relaxation (R&R) areas along the Lingkaran Tengah Utama (LTU) Expressway.

The Ruler said that the R&R stops were essential to address the needs of those who use the route, formerly known as the Central Spine Road.

“Such facilities will provide convenience and comfort to road users and also help to address the issue of littering and waste being left on the roadside due to the lack of toilet facilities.

“I hope the Economy Ministry and Works Ministry can give due consideration to construct such infrastructure for the public,” Al-Sultan Abdullah said in a statement on Thursday (Oct 10).

The Ruler also noted his disappointment on learning that only basic infrastructure had been constructed at the originally planned R&Rs as the cost of building the facilities had doubled from initial estimates.

So far, four sections of the LTU have opened –Bentong Bypass, Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Chandan-Kampung Asap, Raub Bypass and Mentara-Kampung Seberang Jelai section – with overall progress of the project at 66.01%.

It was reported that two locations have been earmarked for R&R facilities – between Bentong and Raub and in Kampung Kechau Tui, Lipis.