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

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 12 — Contracts for firms involved in the Pan Borneo Highway's construction cannot be terminated on a whim, as work delays are not solely the contractors' responsibility, according to Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. When contractors request an extension of time (EOT), the Works Ministry (KKR) must determine if the holdups stem from government agency constraints or other factors.

So far, just one contractor has had its contract terminated due to project delays after a thorough evaluation. A contractor may be prepared to commence work but be unable to access the site due to unresolved land acquisition and compensation matters, Nanta explained. He noted this during an appearance on Bernama TV's Ruang Bicara programme, slated for airing on November 16, where they discussed bolstering national infrastructure for sustainable development.

Besides land compensation issues, construction work could also be stalled if utility infrastructure, like water pipes and underground cables, have not been relocated by relevant parties, as proceeding with the work could risk damaging them. To prevent further delays, the KKR has proactively established monitoring committees, a steering committee, and task forces to tackle these issues.

By utilizing these platforms, problems at construction sites can be raised and solutions decided promptly without unnecessary waiting and time wastage due to poor coordination, Nanta emphasized. The minister also highlighted that oversight of the projects is enhanced through regular site visits by the ministry's top management and close collaboration with the Sabah and Sarawak Public Works Departments.

As of now, just 11.4% of the work packages under the Pan Borneo Highway project in Sabah have been completed, more than a decade after its implementation began, while the Sarawak segment is nearing completion.