KOTA KINABALU: Strategic collaboration among the Public Works Department (JKR), Sabah JKR and Sarawak JKR is key to improving project coordination as well as addressing project delays and problematic projects nationwide, including the Pan Borneo Highway construction.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi (pic) said the collaboration serves as an important platform for the country’s main implementing agencies to discuss challenges openly and find joint solutions.
He noted that while improvements have been made since the collaboration was initiated, several issues still need to be addressed efficiently to ensure projects are completed within the stipulated timeframe.
“We have made it clear to all agencies under JKR, Sabah JKR and Sarawak JKR that we must find ways to resolve problems. Once we do, we can move more efficiently,” he told reporters after launching the Strategic Collaboration Programme between the Works Ministry, Sabah JKR and the Construction Industry Development Board here yesterday, Bernama reported.
Also present was Deputy Chief Minister I and state Works and Utilities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
Nanta said the collaboration is crucial as Malaysia JKR, Sabah JKR and Sarawak JKR are the country’s main implementing agencies for construction projects.
He highlighted that billions of ringgit worth of projects are currently under way, including the Pan Borneo Highway, roads and government buildings.
“We acknowledge that coordination constraints have been among the factors behind project delays. That is why this platform was created to identify problems and find joint solutions so that projects can be implemented more efficiently.”
Separately, when asked about the construction of U-turns along the Pan Borneo Highway, he said each location is determined based on technical studies that take into account road geometry, sight distance and road-user safety factors.
“These are not constructed arbitrarily. They go through a thorough review process to ensure the safety and comfort of road users remain the top priority,” he emphasised.
Meanwhile, Joachim said infrastructure is a catalyst for economic growth, competitiveness, community well-being, as well as the more efficient and effective delivery of government services.
As such, every investment in infrastructure development must be carried out with strategic planning, quality execution and efficient and sustainable asset management.
“At the same time, we must ensure every project delivers the best value to the people through transparent governance, prudent use of resources and a culture of continuous improvement.”
Earlier, Nanta and Joachim witnessed the signing of a road asset data declaration between the Works Ministry, Sabah’s Works and Utilities Ministry, and Sabah’s Local Government and Housing Ministry.
Also signed were memoranda of agreements between the Works Ministry, Sabah JKR and Sarawak JKR for the use of Sabah and Sarawak government premises to establish MyBIM laboratories.
