KUALA LUMPUR – The announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for minor infrastructure projects currently under the supervision of the Public Works Department (PWD) to be transferred to other departments will enable PWD to focus on more complex infrastructure projects.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said he welcomed the announcement by the prime minister as it would also reduce PWD’s work burden.
“Transferring implementation of minor infrastructure projects, such as the renovation of dilapidated schools and clinics, to other departments or district offices will enable PWD to focus more on implementing complex infrastructure projects such as the construction of hospitals, schools, big bridges, ports, highways, and so on,” he said in a statement today.
He said the move would also enable the client ministries, like the health and education ministries, to carry out minor infrastructure projects such as minor repairs on schools, drains and fences themselves.
“This is in line with the instructions in Treasury Instructions 182, which states that the ministry/department/agency may undertake maintenance works to repair minor damage not involving building structures or electrical works worth not more than RM200,000.
“Implementation of these projects will also take into account the capabilities of the bodies concerned,” he said.
Yesterday, Anwar said minor infrastructure projects such as repairs of dilapidated schools currently under PWD supervision will be transferred to other departments or the district office.
Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said although major infrastructure projects involving highways and flood mitigation are important, the people also expect issues concerning school toilets, drains outside their houses, and mosque fencing to also be resolved. – Bernama, June 13, 2023