KOTA KINABALU: Sabah needs quality and trustworthy local contractors that can deliver as advertised and make every cent paid to them worthwhile.
State Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, who is also finance minister, said there is still huge development potential here in terms of logistics, infrastructure, housing, utilities and other economic sectors that require contractors.
“But every contractor that gets the project must make sure they have the financial capacity, manpower, technical and implementation knowledge as well as the required qualities to commence and complete the project,” he said.
He said this way, when projects are completed according to schedule, specifications and the required standards, customer confidence and satisfaction would strengthen.
“This way, we can build up our local contractors’ portfolios and help the state development sector grow,” said Masidi, adding that local contractors must also strive to excel in their work.
He said this after officiating the Malaysia Malay Contractors Association (Sabah) annual general meeting in Penampang near here, Tuesday.
In this respect, he urged local contractors to stop depending solely on government contracts but to expand their networks and experience by searching for private projects or investments as well.
Masidi said as with any projects or investments, the funds channelled for a project must be used for quality results because in the matter of state developments, the amount of allocations given does not necessarily equal to the same level of outcome expected by the people.
“Sabahans just want one thing, which is to see that every project announced to be delivered with the quality and result they deserve and expect,” he said.
“For the people, what matters is the result - roads that can be used, water supply that reaches homes and public amenities that function,” he stressed.
On this note, Masidi advised contractors to apply and take up jobs that they can handle well, rather than ending up with half-baked results.
He said issues that arise during the commencement of any project would affect the timeliness and outcome, including safety, cost control, waste and environmental aspects.
He also suggested that contractors should constantly have the urge to improve themselves with the latest technology and skills, as well as for the younger and experienced players to work together so that knowledge can be exchanged, shared, as well as explored for better results.
Masidi said in all economic and development sectors, there will always be room for growth, regardless of whether those in charge are newcomers or experts in their fields.
