ECONOMY Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir has conducted an official working visit to Johor to assess the progress of major development projects and strengthen coordination between ministries, state authorities and implementing agencies.
He said Johor currently has 613 development programmes and projects worth RM56.12 billion, comprising 154 new projects and 459 ongoing initiatives.
"As of July 27, 2026, RM2.5 billion or 50.51 per cent of the RM4.95 billion allocation for this year has been spent.
"The priority of the Economy Ministry is to ensure implementation progresses smoothly, facilities are completed and development benefits reach the people," he said.
HSAJB Positioned As Johor's Leading Referral Healthcare Hub
During his visit to Sultanah Aminah Hospital Johor Bahru (HSAJB), Akmal reviewed seven healthcare development and upgrading projects worth approximately RM1.139 billion, with a 2026 allocation ceiling of RM60.8 million.
The projects include the development of a day treatment centre and specialist clinic complex, upgrades to electrical and mechanical systems, replacement and modernisation of lifts, medical gas systems, a neurosurgical suite and pathology laboratory facilities.
Among the key projects monitored was the upgrading of HSAJB’s main electricity supply and electrical and mechanical systems, valued at approximately RM159 million, which has achieved 76.49 per cent physical progress.
The immediate priority is to ensure the existing scope of work continues according to schedule, with completion targeted for Dec 31, 2026.
"The Economy Ministry has agreed that works within the existing scope should continue under the appointed contractor.
"At the same time, the ministry has no objection to the proposed construction of three new emergency operating theatres valued at approximately RM20.7 million.
"This approach will allow the existing project to continue according to schedule, while the implementation method will be carefully assessed together with the Health Ministry and Public Works Department in terms of operations, cost and governance, with the aim of strengthening the efficiency and quality of services at HSAJB," Akmal said.
The minister also reviewed the progress of the HSAJB Ambulatory Care Centre (ACC) and Specialist Clinic Complex Phase 1 and Phase 2, valued at RM877.54 million.
The pre-qualification process for the project began on July 16, 2026, and is scheduled to close on Aug 18, 2026, with the Letter of Acceptance expected to be issued in February 2027.
"The ACC and Specialist Clinic Complex at HSAJB will significantly increase the hospital’s service capacity.
"With 16 clinics, 168 consultation rooms, 10 operating theatres and 55 dialysis machines, this development is not merely about adding physical space, but strengthening the healthcare system’s ability to provide better treatment for the people," he said.
Outcome-Driven Monitoring To Ensure Project Delivery
The working visit underscores the Economy Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the implementation of approved development projects in Johor, ensuring they are completed smoothly, delivered according to schedule and generate meaningful outcomes for the public.
The ministry will continue working closely with the Johor state government, relevant ministries and implementing agencies to address implementation challenges collectively and ensure every project advances towards its intended objectives. - August 7, 2026
