BAHAU: The government is committed to strengthening rail connectivity across the country, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
He said this at the rehabilitation and upgrading of the Gemas-Mentakab railway line (Package A) completion ceremony.
“Through infrastructure improvements such as this, the government is committed to strengthening the rail network as the backbone of the country’s transport system, while increasing the use of public transport, enhancing connectivity between regions and supporting more inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” he said in his speech at the KTM station here on Friday (July 24).
Loke said the Gemas-Mentakab project was originally awarded in February 2016 with an expected completion date of Feb 20, 2019. However, the original contractor failed to complete the works and its contract was subsequently terminated.
He said the government resumed the remaining works under the 12th Malaysia Plan through an open retender process managed by the Negri Sembilan Public Works Department.
The project was completed on June 19 at a total cost of RM41.7mil.
Loke also commended the Negri Sembilan Public Works Department and contractors, Asia Communication and Electronic Sdn Bhd (Asiakom), for completing the project.
He said the Gemas-Tumpat railway upgrading project comprised three packages: Package A from Gemas to Mentakab, Package B from Mentakab to Gua Musang, and Package C from Gua Musang to Tumpat.
“To date, Package A and Package B have been fully completed, while Package C remains under implementation,” he said.
