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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, June 14: The Federal Ministry of Works will assess the specific monitoring requirements of minor projects to identify those that can be entrusted to other departments or agencies or at the district level for full implementation.
Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi emphasised that the decision to review and finalise the list of minor projects is aimed at addressing concerns regarding the technical capacity of other departments or the district office.
“In fact, a number of small projects have already been transferred but my Ministry will fine-tune the procedures involves, particularly with regards to technical aspects such as structural (integrity), which requires the expertise of the JKR to ensure compliance with standards and safety regulations.
“By carefully assessing each project, the Ministry will determine which ones do not necessitate the specific monitoring of the JKR and the Ministry, thereby allowing them to be fully implemented by the respective departments or at the district level,” he told reporters when met at his Gawai Dayak celebration at his residence in Kuching here last night (June 13).
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian, and other dignitaries were present.
Nanta, who is also Kapit member of Parliament (MP), highlighted this in welcoming the initiative announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for minor infrastructure projects such as repair of dilapidated schools, clinics and toilets, currently under the Public Works Department (JKR) supervision, to be transferred to other departments or the district office.
Nanta pointed out the goal is to ensure the implementation of minor projects, typically involve an estimated cost of RM200,000, will be streamlined and carried out efficiently without compromising quality or safety.
He also gave assurance that the list of minor projects will be finalised as soon as possible as well as addressing other needs related to these projects.
“The Ministry recognised the importance to expediate the completion of projects needed by the people,” he added.
On Monday (June 11), Anwar emphasised that projects on repairs of dilapidated schools, clinics and toilets should no longer burden JKR, which has a huge responsibility, especially in implementing development projects and maintaining infrastructure, such as roads, buildings, airports, ports and jetties, for various ministries, departments, statutory bodies and state governments.
The Prime Minister said he would hold a meeting with all district officers next week so that they can carry out the implementation tasks involved. — DayakDaily
