KUALA LUMPUR: The recent sinkhole incident in Jalan Masjid India, here shows the need for infrastructure maintenance by business entities and authorities.
Malaysia Institute of Transport (MiTRANS) director and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Associate Professor Dr Wan Mazlina Wan Mohamed said a dedicated maintenance fund is necessary.
"Currently, Malaysia prioritises new construction over the upkeep of existing infrastructure. In contrast, European countries routinely invest in summer maintenance projects to maintain their infrastructure.
"A dedicated maintenance fund would ensure ongoing infrastructure stability and help prevent costly and safety disruptions,” she told Bernama on Sunday (Aug 25).
The associate professor said that preventive maintenance addresses minor issues before they become major problems and extends the lifespan of infrastructure.
Wan Mazlina also highlighted the role of data-driven decision-making in infrastructure management.
"Businesses and authorities must leverage data analytics to monitor infrastructure performance and make informed decisions about resource allocation. However, Malaysia’s fragmented data collection and the reluctance of private companies to share information impede this process,” she said.
Wan Mazlina said that establishing a comprehensive and integrated database could improve forecasting and planning, thereby reducing infrastructure-related issues and enhancing safety and efficiency
On Saturday (Aug 25), Bernama reported that Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said mapping utilities is crucial to understanding the underground infrastructure.
"I have received many complaints that during the development of projects, dredging work often reveals large cables, for example, which were not indicated on the map. Hence, there is a need for collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur mayor to ensure that we not only have mapping on the surface but also utility mapping,” he said.
Wan Mazlina suggested implementing performance metrics to evaluate maintenance and upgrade projects to ensure the efficient use of maintenance funds.
"These metrics help ensure that resources are used effectively and that projects meet their objectives. For businesses, this translates to better infrastructure management and reduced risk of disruptions.
"More importantly, effective maintenance and performance evaluation can prevent incidents with serious safety implications, creating a safer environment for all,” she concluded. – Bernama
