By Doreen Ling
KUCHING, Oct 21: Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi has called on other states to emulate Sarawak’s proactive approach in identifying and addressing their development needs.
In an interview on Agenda Awani’s Budget 2026 segment, Nanta recalled a strategic collaboration programme held in February this year in Kuching, which brought together his ministry and Public Works Department (JKR), as well as its Sarawak and Sabah branches.
“We discussed ways to enhance our service delivery and address the challenges faced. For Sarawak, although the Pan Borneo Highway is nearing completion, there are still other ongoing projects, such as the Sarawak–Sabah Link Road (SSLR) and several bridges.
“During the discussion, we realised that Sarawak needed to strengthen its implementation capacity. Within two to three months, the State increased its engineer intake by 300.
“Sarawak was quick to understand its needs, and I hope other states can follow that example,” he said during the interview, which was aired via Astro Awani’s Facebook page on Monday night (Oct 20).
Nanta, who is also Kapit MP, said that even with funds allocated and projects lined up, it meant nothing if there are weaknesses in their delivery.
“I stressed to my ministry, JKR, and agencies under it to do the best that we can do with the trust given to us. That is our responsibility—no excuses. I am, however, proud to see the strong cooperation from all parties,” he said.
He also added that sometime next month, his ministry will hold a retreat to plan and strategise implementation for its Budget 2026 allocations to ensure optimal delivery.
The Budget 2026, which Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim tabled on Oct 10, saw the Works Ministry receiving a total allocation of RM10.692 billion, an increase of 3.3 per cent, compared to RM10.349 billion in 2025.
The total operating budget (OE) approved is RM1.085 billion, an increase of 6.1 per cent compared to RM1.022 billion in 2025, which will be fully utilised to enhance the capabilities and capacity of the ministry and its staff with the latest skills and technology.
For the approved 2026 development budget (DE) of RM9.607 billion compared to RM9.327 billion in 2025, an increase of 3.0 per cent, JKR will focus on the implementation of new development projects as well as the continuation of existing infrastructure projects nationwide. — DayakDaily
