Deputy Premier: Close to 50 formerly sick projects now taken over by rescue contractors in Sarawak

Uggah (second right) being briefed by the contractor representative at the Jalan Baru Matang Phase 2 project site.

KUCHING, Feb 17: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas highlighted that approximately 50 formerly ‘sick’ projects have been transferred to new or rescue contractors across Sarawak.

According a report from the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), during an inspection of the ongoing construction for the Jalan Baru Matang Phase 2 upgrading project, Uggah stressed the necessity of constant monitoring and visits to ensure timely completion.

“The close monitoring and visits are especially crucial for formerly ailing projects that have been entrusted to new or rescue contractors,” he stated.


Uggah, who is also Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development said, his two deputy ministers, Datuk Majang Renggi and Dato IR Aidel Lariwoo together with Public Works Department (JKR) director Dato Richard Tajan would also monitor and conduct visits for the purpose.

“It is our hope that by April, we will be able to know the work progress of all these projects. We do not want a situation where a sick project is handed over to a new contractor but the contractor becomes sick as well.

“Our close involvement is necessary in case we may need to do some remedial works,” he added.

Meanwhile, on the Jalan Baru Matang Phase 2 project, Uggah said he is satisfied with its progress, which is now 86 per cent ahead of schedule.

He said the four-lane dual carriageway with a total length of about 4.44km, which is being built at a cost of RM54.5 million is expected to be ready by May 2025. — DayakDaily