PETALING JAYA: The RM41mil Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) forward operating base project in Semporna was planned in 2016 and should have been completed by Nov 16 last year.
After almost 10 years, the project in Pulau Mabul, Sabah, remains uncompleted, the Auditor-General’s report says.
The multi-million ringgit project was originally supposed to have been completed within 36 months.
The inordinate delay of the base was the main focus of the Auditor-General’s Report 3/2025.
“Key issues identified include delays in the construction of the Relocation Building (BPS), the main building (excluding BPS) which remains incomplete, and the jetty construction which has yet to begin,” said Auditor-General Datuk Seri Wan Suraya Mohd Radzi.
A pioneer project for Esscom and marine police, the base was supposed to be used as a tactical headquarters to control and monitor the seas.
“This project should be completed through the approved Notice of Change (NOC) to ensure that high-tech infrastructure and security facilities can be provided to enhance the operational level and effectiveness of maritime security control in Eastern Sabah and its surrounding areas,” the report stated.
The audit further revealed that the construction of BPS was delayed by 254 days, and liquidated ascertained damages amounting to RM68,303.14 were imposed.
“From June 17, 2023 to July 31, 2023, the company did not provide workers at the construction site. Notice of Termination of Contractor’s Scope of Work was issued on Sept 6, 2023, due to the company’s failure to fulfil contract obligations.
“The contractor withdrew on Aug 1, 2023, citing increased construction costs, unsuitable original landing point location, and pending TOL (Temporary Occupation Licence) approval.
“The NOC was approved on May 9 this year with an increased ceiling cost of RM28.70mil,” the report said.
The audit further recommended that contractor management and monitoring be carried out more frequently and that complaints received be properly responded to.
