KUALA LUMPUR: Tender evaluations for contractor appointments by the Public Works Department (JKR) are conducted comprehensively, taking into account applicants’ past performance, technical capability and financial standing, said Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
The Works Minister said applicants’ project implementation histories are also assessed, including any projects where contracts were previously terminated.
“JKR also conducts internal governance reviews to strengthen controls and risk assessments, ensuring that appointed contractors are genuinely capable and responsible,” he said.
“All government procurement processes are fully subject to the rules and guidelines set by the Finance Ministry,” he said during his winding-up speech on the motion of thanks for the Royal Address in the Dewan Rakyat here on Monday (Feb 9).
Nanta Linggi was responding to issues raised by MPs regarding contractor appointments and concerns about the same individuals being involved through different companies.
He added that the Works Ministry would not protect any contractor that fails to fulfil its contractual obligations and remains committed to ensuring that all federal infrastructure projects are implemented transparently, with accountability, and in a manner that delivers maximum benefit to the people.
Meanwhile, he said his ministry has allocated RM300mil under the Empowering Bumiputera Contractors Programme (G1–G4) for 758 federal road maintenance works, comprising 81 periodic pavement works and 677 non-pavement periodic works.
“There has been an increase of 112 projects from 2025 to 2026, which indirectly creates more work opportunities for contractors, particularly those in the G1 and G2 categories,” he said.
He added that the ministry has also allocated RM200mil each to Sabah and Sarawak under the same programme.
On the East Coast Highway Phase 3 (LPT3), Alexander said the Works Ministry has carried out a preliminary study covering traffic, social, economic, environmental and engineering aspects to determine the most suitable alignment.
“Based on the study, the selected LPT3 alignment will begin in Kampung Gemuruh, Terengganu, and end in Tunjong, Kelantan, spanning 122km,” he said.
“The project is expected to strengthen connectivity and logistics systems while spurring more robust economic growth in states along the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.
