Zahid: Rural and Regional Development Ministry aims to clear RM259.5m in project arrears by year-end

Bagan Datuk, Nov 1 — Deputy Prime Minister and Rural and Regional Development Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi expressed his optimism about resolving outstanding payments for projects under his ministry's purview by the end of the year. Speaking at a press conference following the 2026 Deepavali Santunan Kasih event at the Bagan Datuk Umno Hall, Zahid emphasized his administration's resolve to ensure that funds are made available to settle payments for completed projects and progress payments owed to contractors and suppliers.

The Deputy Prime Minister clarified that this matter was previously addressed in Parliament and subsequently responded to by the Finance Minister II. Addressing concerns over a video circulating on TikTok alleging delayed payments for projects totaling over RM200 million, Zahid reiterated his hope that the issue could be resolved amicably.

By September 30, outstanding interim payments to contractors and compensation to landowners for 112 projects amounted to approximately RM259.5 million, as reported by Bernama.