MIRI: A funding increase for the Ministry of Works next year shows the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.
“Our 2025 budget will see a rise of 9 per cent, which is crucial for various projects aimed at improving the nation’s roads and infrastructure,” said Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
Under next year’s budget the ministry will get an allocation of RM10.35 billion compared to the RM9.511 billion it was given in the previous budget.
“The Ministry of Finance has taken our proposals into consideration, and I am delighted with the results,” he said after witnessing the handover of the new Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA, Miri zone) complex in Kampung Pulau Melayu here Sunday.
The allocation includes a significant increase in both operating and development expenditures. Operating expenditure will rise by 8 per cent, reaching RM1.022 billion, while the development budget is set to increase by 9 per cent, reaching RM9.327 billion.
Among the key allocations, RM2.8 billion is earmarked for extending federal roads, while RM1 billion will be allocated for upgrading secondary, Felda and industrial roads.
Additionally, Nanta highlighted an increase in funding for small contractors, with the allocation for G1 to G4 contractors rising from RM300 million in 2024 to RM450 million in 2025.
“This is great news for the smaller contractors, as they will see a significant boost in opportunities,” he noted.
In line with the government’s push for smarter infrastructure, the budget also includes a 48 per cent increase for the installation of new smart traffic lights and street lighting systems.
“This is a step forward in making our infrastructure more efficient and in line with modern technology,” he said.
Nanta also stated that district engineers would continue to receive RM200,000 annually for each district, the same allocation as in 2024.
This will ensure that districts remain well-supported in their infrastructure projects.
