Zero tolerance for project delays under 13MP, says Sarawak deputy minister

MIRI (Feb 13): Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala has emphasised zero tolerance for project delays and weak monitoring as Sarawak enters the implementation phase of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).

Speaking after chairing the Northern Zone Project Implementation Monitoring Coordination Meeting in Bintulu on Thursday, Gerawat said 2026 marks a critical starting point for the five-year plan running through 2030, and that the focus must now shift decisively from planning to execution.

“This five-year period is not just about planning — it is about effective execution and measurable impact, in line with our Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030,” he said.

Gerawat stressed the importance of robust project monitoring to ensure transparency, accountability and value for money in public expenditure.

The meeting reviewed projects under 13MP, state allocations, Rural Transformation Projects (RTP), Projek Rakyat and Alternative Funding for the Northern Zone, covering Bintulu, Miri and Limbang divisions.

“All projects must be monitored systematically and consistently.

“Implementing agencies are required to track progress closely, identify risks early, and conduct periodic performance evaluations,” he said.

Gerawat urged agencies to adopt a proactive, solution-oriented approach in addressing technical issues, site delays, contractor problems and funding constraints.

Minor setbacks left unresolved, he warned, could escalate into major failures jeopardising overall project completion.

He also called for stronger collaboration across departments.

“Clear and open communication among implementing agencies, divisional offices, and all stakeholders will be key to smooth execution,” he said.

Gerawat encouraged stakeholders to draw lessons from past projects to enhance planning, execution standards, and the quality of outcomes under 13MP.

He reminded implementing agencies bear full responsibility for delivering results that justify public expenditure and advance Sarawak’s long-term development goals.