Ahmad Maslan: One-third JKR projects nationwide behind schedule, 4.1 pct classified as ‘sick projects’

KUCHING (March 18): One-third of 855 Public Works Department (JKR) projects nationwide are behind schedule, said Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.

From that figure, 4.1 per cent or 35 are classified as ‘sick projects’.

“For projects considered delayed, even a lag of 30 to 31 days is already categorised as behind schedule.

“Anything exceeding 10 per cent delay is deemed late,” he told reporters after visiting the Federal Multipurpose Complex (BGP) construction site in Petra Jaya.

He pointed out that one-third of JKR projects are on track, while one-third are ahead of schedule.

Ahmad urged JKR officers to expedite projects that are behind schedule, stressing the importance of timely delivery.

On education infrastructure, he said there are currently 1,492 projects under JKR nationwide with a total value of RM37.98 billion.

“In Sarawak alone, there are 77 education projects worth RM4.13 billion, reflecting the federal government’s ongoing commitment to improving education facilities in the state,” he said.

From that figure, 25 are in the pre-construction stage, 23 are under construction, and 28 have been completed but remain under the defect liability period, he said.

Ahmad cited SMK Demak Baru, which is in the pre-construction stage, and SMK Tabuan Jaya, which has been completed, as examples of progress.

He reiterated that the ministry would continue to closely monitor project implementation to ensure timely completion and quality standards, as well as to prevent delays.