By Marlynda Meraw
KUCHING, Dec 3: Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD) Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas has refuted claims made by Padungan assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen that the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) is delaying payments to contractors working on State government projects.
During his ministerial winding-up speech, Uggah countered Chong’s allegation that some contractors were waiting six months to a year for payments, describing it as “false and misleading”.
“Payments are made based on verified claims, in line with proper procedures,” said Uggah.
He pointed out that the Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Act (CIPAA) provides clear mechanisms for addressing late payments and claim disputes.
“To date, there are no outstanding CIPAA disputes with JKR Sarawak,” he said.
Uggah’s statement was made in response to Chong’s claims during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting, where the Padungan assemblyman raised numerous complaints about slow payments, including one involving a contractor for the Jalan Baru Matang Phase 1 project who allegedly faced a two-year wait for a small arbitration deposit.
Nevertheless, Uggah, who is also Deputy Premier, expressed gratitude to members of the august House for bringing forward requests and concerns regarding bridges, roads, street lighting and other infrastructural needs in their respective constituencies.
“My Ministry and JKR Sarawak will study this proposal, taking into consideration of their benefits to the Rakyat and followed by the submission to the Federal and Sarawak governments where it is relevant for consideration under the 13th Malaysia Plan,” he said. — DayakDaily
