Only one ‘sick’ project among 14 ongoing in Bintulu Division

BINTULU: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas reported that out of the 14 ongoing projects worth RM1.124 billion in Bintulu Division, only one project, a federal government initiative, is categorised as “sick” due to delays from the scheduled timeline.

However, he did not disclose the specific project involved. Meanwhile, the remaining 13 projects, all Sarawak government initiatives, are progressing as planned.

“I am very pleased to inform you that only one federal government project is sick. All Sarawak government projects are running smoothly and are set to follow the schedule,” he stated during a press conference after chairing the Rural Network Project Monitoring meeting with the Bintulu Public Works Department (JKR) and local representatives on Tuesday (Aug 6).

The meeting was part of a field visit by the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, aimed at gathering feedback on the performance and status of projects implemented by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) through JKR in Bintulu Division.

To ensure projects remain on schedule, Uggah explained that JKR enforces a one-month rule for contractors to commence work.

“This one-month rule is part of the contract terms and agreements with the contractors. Most or all contractors have reported compliance with this rule, demonstrating a good level of adherence.”

He also warned that contractors who fail to start work within the stipulated time frame would face immediate action, including possible contract termination.

Uggah stressed that this policy aligns with JKR’s goal of achieving a zero sick project target.

Accompanying Uggah at the meeting were Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department and Kakus assemblyman Datuk Sri John Sikie Tayai; Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (Infrastructure Development) Datuk Ir Aidel Lariwoo; Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (Port Development) and Samalaju assemblyman Datuk Majang Renggi; Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon; and Sarawak JKR director Ir Dr Cassidy Morris.

Earlier in the day, Uggah and his delegation also inspected the progress of the Integrated Administrative Centre (IAC) Bintulu in Jepak, which is scheduled for completion by the end of March next year.