Zahid Hamidi directs Rural Development Ministry to clear backlog by year-end

In Malaysia's Ministry of Rural and Regional Development, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has directed the department to complete outstanding projects, payments, land issues, utilities, contracts, assets, and decisions by the end of the year through a new initiative known as "Operation Zero Delay." This move is crucial given the limited time left until 2026 and the increasing cost of delays.

Dr Zahid emphasized that the remaining four months should prioritize completing ongoing initiatives rather than introducing new ones. He called for a thorough review of all unresolved matters, categorizing them into three groups: those that can be resolved immediately, those requiring higher-level decisions, and those that are no longer practical.

Each issue must have a designated responsible party, a clear timeline, and a definitive decision to prevent recurring problems. Dr Zahid stressed that the success of a project depends not only on planning but also on execution, as approvals and allocations alone do not guarantee timely benefits to the populace. He highlighted the importance of prompt payment to contractors, particularly for completed and progressing work, to maintain a stable financial flow that benefits suppliers, subcontractors, employees, and service providers. Delayed payments can create economic ripples, affecting various stakeholders and the overall area.

Dr Zahid stressed the significance of fiscal responsibility, ensuring that commitments are managed properly to safeguard the government's credibility. Given limited financial resources and implementation capacity, he advised focusing on high-priority projects, allocating sufficient resources, and ensuring their successful completion rather than pursuing numerous projects with insufficient backing.

He stressed that a government's effectiveness is measured not just by its planning capabilities but also by its ability to address citizens' needs, aligning with the KKDW's objective of bridging rural communities with opportunities, progress, and improved living standards.