BENTONG: A major upgrade to the National Anti-Drug Agency’s (AADK) Karak Drug Rehabilitation Centre (Puspen) has been fully completed at a cost of RM72.115mil, boosting the facility’s capacity to accommodate up to 500 residents.
The completed project was officially handed over on Monday (Oct 5) at a ceremony attended by Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, and AADK director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh.
Speaking at the event, Nanta revealed that the project, which began on Aug 6, 2021, and was finished on July 27 this year, had previously faced severe delays before being brought back on track.
"Throughout its implementation, the project faced technical and operational challenges and was even classified as a 'sick project,' attracting the special attention of the Prime Minister," Nanta said. "However, through continuous monitoring and close cooperation among all parties, the project was successfully completed and handed over for the benefit of the community."
The Works Minister noted that oversight was led by the Pahang Public Works Department (JKR) director as the Superintendent Officer, supported by Pahang JKR’s Federal Project Team to ensure high construction standards.
Although the site has been handed over, Nanta reminded the contractor that any issues arising during the Defects Liability Period (DLP) must be resolved promptly.
Highlighting the project's broader social impact, Nanta said the upgraded facility goes beyond basic infrastructure.
"This project is important as it not only helps ease the emotional and social burden on families, but also provides comfortable and conducive infrastructure to support the treatment and rehabilitation process for residents," he said.
The newly upgraded complex features extensive administrative, educational, and vocational facilities. Key additions include an administrative block, treatment block, counselling block, multipurpose hall, 10 hostel blocks, a family visitation block, and air-conditioned lecture rooms.
To support skills development, the centre also houses dedicated workshops for agriculture, sewing, and welding.
Security at the facility has been significantly strengthened with a centralised control room, guard tower, centrally monitored CCTV system, and anti-climb fencing standing up to 5.2 meters high.
Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution welcomed the project's completion, expressing relief that the former "sick project" is now fully operational to support national rehabilitation efforts.
