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Ahmad (right) and Jasmi (on his right) are pictured during the work visit to PPK2 Sarawak office. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (April 9): The private sectors should come forward to help address the shortage of construction supplies in Sabah and Sarawak, said Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.
He said the limited number of suppliers, particularly for Industrialised Building System (IBS) components and key materials, has become a major challenge affecting project implementation in both states.
“At present, there are only three IBS suppliers in Sabah and Sarawak — two in Sabah and one in Sarawak – which is insufficient to meet demand,” he said during a working visit to the Public Works Department (JKR) Special Project Team 2 (PPK2) Sarawak office at Wisma Hong here.
Ahmad noted that many essential construction materials, including tiles, fire-rated doors, roofing, aluminium frames, AAC blocks and ironmongery, are still sourced from Peninsular Malaysia due to the lack of local suppliers.
“This has led to higher costs and slower project delivery. We call on industry players, especially local companies, to participate in supplying these materials,” he said.
He added that high diesel prices for industrial use have further increased operating costs, particularly for heavy machinery and transport.
“While subsidised diesel is priced at RM2.15 per litre for the public in Sabah and Sarawak, industry players pay market rates of about RM6.72 per litre,” he said.
Ahmad said the Works Ministry, together with JKR, will submit proposals to the Ministry of Finance to address the challenges faced by the construction sector.
Despite the situation, he said no stop-work orders have been issued, although contractors may face delay as they adjust to rising costs.
“For example, out of 10 machines, five may operate while five remain idle. Eventually, there may be an Extension of Time (EOT) if the West Asia conflict continues, but no decision has been made yet,” he said.
Also present during the visit was PPK 2 Team Director Dato Ir Jasmi Wahab.
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