LIMBANG: The Sarawak government is making every effort to complete the unfinished projects in the state.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said originally there were 98 projects facing significant delays, but now only 34 remain uncompleted.
Of these 34 projects, he said 20 were federal government projects and the rest were under the jurisdiction of the Sarawak government.
“The process of terminating contracts and acquiring new contractors for federal government projects is very complicated compared to the Sarawak government which provides for a smooth implementation of management processes including clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in handling these projects.
“That’s why we only have 14 sick projects left to manage. And we go to the ground, engage with the contractors and urge them to complete the projects on time.
“Now is the right time for them to increase manpower and resources to ensure timely completion of the projects,” he said during a work visit to the project sites of the Limbang Integrated Administration Centre (IAC) and the Second Sungai Limbang Bridge recently.
Uggah also said that among the factors contributing to the project delays are the surge in construction material costs due to the impact of Covid-19, manpower and financial issues, and management challenges.
Regarding the RM157 million Limbang IAC project, Uggah stressed the need for contractors to address any potential issues related to labour, machinery, and building materials to meet the scheduled completion in September of the following year.
“The Public Works Department (PWD) , especially the Supervising Officer, should also ensure the construction is completed as scheduled,” he said.
During his visit to the Sungai Limbang Bridge Project site, Uggah acknowledged some progress but expressed the need for further advancement.
“Nevertheless, I am confident that the project will continue according to schedule and be completed by the end of 2024,” he said.
