The Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, has suggested that the Finance Ministry and the Work Ministry utilize the prequalified tender procurement method to select contractors for the Pan Borneo Highway (LPB) project. This method, according to him, would ensure the reliability of the appointed contractor without affecting the highway construction process. Fadillah explained, “Doing it through an open tender will take a long time, especially if there are too many applications. So, I recommend a prequalified tender, meaning the tender will be opened with conditions. Contractors who meet the criteria will be identified, and those who qualify will be called to enter the actual tender.” He made these comments during the state-level Cost of Living Carnival at Dewan Hikmah on Sunday, September 17.
Fadillah, who is the coordinator for the Pan Borneo Highway project, emphasized his desire to expedite the highway construction, which comprises a total distance of 1,492km. His recommendations align with the Prime Minister’s promise, made during his speech on Malaysia Day 2023, to fulfill the promises and agreements made during the formation of Malaysia, including the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). Fadillah has been entrusted with the responsibility to expedite and resolve issues surrounding the Pan Borneo Highway project.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also expressed the importance of completing the highway construction earlier than the previously set deadline. In his statement, Anwar highlighted the need to address any obstacles hindering the progress of the Pan Borneo Highway project.
In an update on August 20, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi reported that Phase 1 of the Sabah LPB Project, which consists of 15 work packages, is currently 82% completed and is scheduled to be fully finished by January 2025. Additionally, Phase 1 of the Sarawak LPB Project, involving 11 work packages, is almost 98% completed.
These recent developments indicate the government’s determination to enhance infrastructure by expediting the Pan Borneo Highway project. By employing the prequalified tender procurement method, the government aims to streamline the contractor selection process and strengthen the project’s reliability. This approach is expected to contribute to the earlier completion of the highway, supporting the nation’s goals for increased connectivity and economic growth.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
