BINTULU: A new contractor has been appointed to complete the critically delayed Sebauh bridge in Sebauh.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said that Hartanah Construction and Development Sendirian Berhad has been appointed as the new contractor, and the previous contractor has been terminated.
“The previous contractor delayed the completion by more than three years. Even though approximately 50.61 per cent of the work on the RM89 million project was finished, the contractor failed to proceed with the remaining tasks.
“This resulted in the bridge’s critical delay, turning it into a troubled project,” he said during his visit to the site yesterday.
He further disclosed that the new contractor has been given a timeline of two years, that is, until 2025, to complete the remaining works.
“But we have asked them to attempt to finish it earlier, ideally within 18 months. We are still discussing the cost for the remaining work with them,” he added.
In connection with this, the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD) said that his ministry is now keeping a close eye on the construction of 11 bridges as part of the Coastal and Second Trunk Road Projects.
“We’ve inspected most of them, and their progress is commendable. Only one or two seem to face challenges.
“We will work on resolving these issues while also scrutinising their construction progress. I’d like to remind all contractors to adhere to the given timelines.
“If you fail to deliver, we will not hesitate to terminate your contract,” he warned.
Subsequently, Uggah said that the government took this stance because the public eagerly awaits the completion of approved road, bridge, or building projects.
Furthermore, he pointed out, the government aims to finish its projects on time to satisfy public expectations for service.
“When projects face delays, the blame often falls on the government, its agencies like the Public Works Department (PWD), and the elected representatives.”
He noted that currently, there are only 32 critically delayed projects, both at the state and federal levels, within the state.
“Out of these, 10 are funded by the state. When I first joined the MIPD, the number stood at 104,” he said.
