Works Ministry eyes bigger Budget 2027 allocation for development and maintenance

The Works Ministry (KKR) is aiming to secure the largest development budget in Budget 2027, as announced by Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan. KKR is currently collecting input from various agencies, including the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM), Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB), and the Public Works Department (JKR), to prepare for the upcoming budget.

Ahmad revealed that KKR received approximately RM10 billion in the previous budget, with RM9 billion allocated for development projects. He expressed hope that KKR's share would increase in the 2027 budget, which is currently under discussion. The ministry is also working on developing smart highways using technologies such as digital technology, artificial intelligence, closed-circuit television, smart lanes, and the TuJu navigation application.

TuJu, developed by LLM, provides real-time highway-specific information, including CCTV feeds, toll rates, rest and recreation areas, emergency assistance, and traffic updates. KKR is also exploring the implementation of Multi Lane Free Flow (MLFF) toll collection, which would allow vehicles to pass through toll plazas without stopping, through business-to-business arrangements between concessionaires.