KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 11): Contracts of companies involved in the construction of the Pan Borneo Highway cannot be terminated arbitrarily, as delays in individual work packages are not necessarily caused solely by the contractors’ shortcomings.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said that when contractors applied for an extension of time, the Works Ministry had to assess whether the delays were caused by constraints on the part of government agencies or other factors.

He said only one contractor had so far had its contract terminated over delays in the project, following a comprehensive assessment.

“When contractors apply for an extension of time, we have to carefully examine whether the problem is their fault, as some delays may also be caused by factors on our side.

“For example, a contractor may be ready to begin work but cannot access the site because land acquisition and compensation matters have yet to be settled by the relevant government department,” he said.

The minister said this after appearing as a guest on a recording of Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme that discussed strengthening national infrastructure towards sustainable development, scheduled to be aired on Nov 16.

Apart from land compensation issues, he said construction work could also be held up if utility infrastructure, such as water pipes and underground cables, had yet to be relocated by the relevant parties, as proceeding with the work could risk damaging them.

To avoid further delays, he said his ministry had proactively set up monitoring committees, a steering committee and task forces to address the issues.

“Through these platforms, problems at construction sites can be raised and solutions decided immediately, without having to wait unnecessarily and waste time due to poor coordination,” he said.

The minister said oversight of the projects is also being strengthened through regular site visits by the ministry's top management, as well as close cooperation with the Sabah and Sarawak Public Works Departments.

To date, only 11.4% of the work packages under the Pan Borneo Highway project in Sabah have been completed, more than 10 years after its implementation began, while the Sarawak stretch is nearing completion.

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