Sabah airport spends RM11.8 million (S$3.7 million) on toilets upgrade, M'sians ask if seats will be gold

Online users were left in disbelief after learning that the ongoing toilet refurbishment project at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) costs RM11.8 million (S$3,798,000).

Some quipped if the seats would be made of gold.

High standard toilets

During a site visit on Jan. 29, local officials revealed to the press the cost of the ongoing toilet refurbishment project: RM11.8 million (S$3,798,000).

The millions would go to giving 26 toilets at the airport a facelift, local media reported.

The state's Assistant to the Chief Minister, Joniston Bangkuai, said the site visit was prompted by complaints of cleanliness issues at the airport.

He added that steps would be taken to ensure that airport facilities, including toilets, would be "maintained at the best possible standard".

Gold-plated toilets?

20 of the toilets have been successfully refurbished so far, with the remaining six due for completion around April to May.

Speaking to the press, the airport manager predicted "a significant improvement in user comfort", reported Daily Express.

Joniston pointed out that KKIA is the main gateway to the state, so its good functioning is imperative.

This includes addressing issues with its toilets, lighting and car park.

But netizens expressed shock at the price tag that came with the toilet upgrading works, with one user on Reddit asking if the toilets would come with AI capabilities.

Some asked if the toilets were made of gold, while others suggested that the toilets may come with automatic bidets, like the ones frequently seen in Japan.

Top image via Sabah News