Pan Borneo Highway delays not always contractors’ fault, says Nanta

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 12 — The minister responsible for construction of the Pan Borneo Highway has clarified that contractors' contracts cannot be terminated arbitrarily for delays, as these are not always the contractors' fault. Works Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the Works Ministry must evaluate whether the delays are due to government agency constraints or other factors before deciding on a contract termination.

Nanta explained that in cases where contractors request an extension of time (EOT), the ministry thoroughly examines whether the contractor's fault is the cause of the delay. He cited an example where a contractor may be prepared to start work but cannot access the site due to unresolved land acquisition and compensation matters with the relevant government department.

Nanta pointed out that construction delays may also occur if utility infrastructure, such as water pipes and underground cables, have not been relocated by the relevant parties, as proceeding with the work could risk damaging them. To mitigate further delays, Nanta said the ministry has established monitoring committees, a steering committee, and task forces to promptly address construction site issues, thereby eliminating the need for unnecessary wait times due to poor coordination.

He also highlighted that oversight of the projects is being reinforced through regular visits by the ministry's senior management and close collaboration with the Sabah and Sarawak Public Works Departments. Currently, only 11.4% of the work packages on the Pan Borneo Highway project in Sabah have been completed, more than a decade after the project's commencement, while the Sarawak segment is nearing completion.