KUCHING: The Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) is well positioned to implement federal projects costing below RM50mil in the state, says Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah.
The Deputy Premier said the department had ample experience in implementing large projects, adding that he had given Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim assurance of this.
"I am confident that JKR will be equal to the task, although it is very challenging given the size of the state," he said during a JKR briefing on the progress of projects at the department's headquarters here on Friday (Jan 27).
Anwar had announced earlier this month that Sabah and Sarawak would have full control to implement development projects below RM50mil without going through the Federal Government.
This would allow the projects to be carried out more efficiently and prevent delays due to bureaucracy.
The Prime Minister also said the ceiling sum of RM50mil could be increased in future if the implementation goes well.
As such, Uggah called on the state JKR to address and resolve any issues which could affect its performance.
"It is extremely important that we can deliver as scheduled and with no compromise on quality.
"We must review our standard operating procedures, manpower and ways of doing things," he said.
Uggah, who earlier declared open JKR's directorate office, also welcomed the department's new key performance index of "zero projek sakit" (zero sick projects).
"I hope the year 2023 will bring in a new and positive image for the department," he said, adding that JKR was a high-profile department shouldering heavy responsibilities.
