Kota Kinabalu to demolish illegal structures in Sembulan

 By Olivia Miwil

January 6, 2026 @ 2:37pm

One of the houses in Sembulan expected to be demolished by Kota Kinabalu City Hall. - Pic courtesy of DBKK

KOTA KINABALU: Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) will evict people and demolish illegal structures in Sembulan here in stages this month.

It said the operation would involve structures built without approval, dilapidated and unsafe buildings, as well as structures with expired lease periods.

Several agencies, including the police, Fire and Rescue Department and Immigration Department, would be part of the operation to ensure public safety and order.

DBKK's survey last month found that there were 159 non-citizen heads of households renting in the area, the majority of whom had invalid travel documents.

"Notices of eviction, demolition and removal were issued from Dec 18 to Dec 22 as early notification, with a reasonable period given for voluntary evacuation and self-demolition of unauthorised structures.

"Engagement, discussions and advisory approaches were also carried out prior to enforcement action," DBKK said in a post on its Facebook page.

It said inspections and monitoring had detected unapproved settlements and structures that violate by-laws and were unsafe, unhygienic and disorganised.

The area has one of the highest dengue transmission rates in Kota Kinabalu, posing a serious public health risk.

"This situation not only tarnishes the city's image, but also increases risks related to safety, fire hazards and environmental pollution, as well as disrupts lawful development planning."

DBKK said the enforcement measures were implemented in accordance with legal provisions, including the Local Government Ordinance 1961, DBKK Building By-Laws, DBKK Licensing and Hawker By-Laws and DBKK Cleanliness and Anti-Littering By-Laws.

"Failure to comply with the notices, including attempts to reoccupy the area or construct new structures without approval, will result in firm action, including fines, prosecution, seizure and immediate demolition without further notice."