KKDW nafi belanja lebih peruntukan

The lack of funds experienced by the Department of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) when COVID-19-related project delays required completion in subsequent years has led to the department denying allegations of overspending beyond allocated budgets. KKDW spokesperson Fadzmel Fadzil explained that the government's financial procedures do not permit any ministry to spend freely without detailed approval and issuance of a proper budget.

Any irregular or excessive spending would be investigated by the Finance Coordination Office. The department has been committing and overspending beyond the annual approved budget for rural outer road projects for several years. When discussing the recent allegation, Fadzmel highlighted that the recent RM300 million allocation was meant to cover previous commitments and ensure timely payments according to work progress and contractual obligations.

Projects cannot be halted midway, and the government is responsible for making payments based on the project's advancement. Although the additional RM300 million is appreciated, it is still not sufficient to cover the entire payment requirement as disbursement is only expected by the end of 2026. KKDW releases funds to contractors through the Department of Works or project agencies, not directly to contractors.

Thus, Fadzmel urged against portraying this as an inter-ministerial conflict, and KKDW is ready to collaborate with the Finance Ministry to find a comprehensive solution.