KUALA LUMPUR – The implementation of the new transportation and logistics project announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the tabling of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) Mid-Term Review in Parliament yesterday should be viewed comprehensively from the aspect of maintenance, preservation and the quality of materials used.
Universiti Utara Malaysia, School of Technology Management and Logistics, Centre for Logistics and Transport, senior lecturer Prof Madya Dr Rohafiz Sabar said good infrastructure maintenance and preservation are equally important aspects of infrastructure development.
“Physical development such as the construction of highways, bridges and airports is a crucial step in improving the country’s transportation facilities but continuous maintenance of these infrastructures is the key to ensuring that it functions effectively in the long term,” she told Bernama.
She said efficient maintenance and preservation helped maintain the usability of existing infrastructure and ensured that it operated efficiently.
“In the Malaysian context, this is crucial because the country has an extensive infrastructure network, including highways, rail networks, ports and airports that need to be well-maintained.
“Even though major infrastructure projects have been built, there are still challenges in ensuring these infrastructures continue to function well after it is constructed,” she said.
On the development of a new port on Carey Island, she said it has the potential to play a significant role in the country’s development.
“We need to identify our strategic position and assess our cargo capacity. When we have development opportunities on Carey Island, it can serve as a control point for international ship routes coming in and out,” she said.
She said the new port on Carey Island complemented the existing Port Klang and there is a possibility that the existing infrastructure has reached its limit.
“The concept for Carey Island appears to align with the Port Klang and this integration can enhance the ecosystem around the Port Klang,” she said.
She said the positive impact of the development on Carey Island could benefit the local community, including increased job opportunities and economic growth in the area.
Universiti Teknologi Mara, Faculty of Business Management, senior lecturer Dr Norashida Othman said transportation infrastructure development played a crucial role not only in the short term but also in the long term.
“This is because effective infrastructure development not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to cost reduction and attracts foreign investors,” she said.
She said Malaysia is a small economy that depended heavily on exports as a source of income.
“Therefore, it is clear that a solid logistics infrastructure is essential. Infrastructure like this can provide significant support to our economy,” she said.
She said the quality of the infrastructure is among the aspects that need to be emphasised and hasty development of infrastructure is not encouraged as it could lead to unsatisfactory results.
“Considering the unique weather conditions in Malaysia, including severe heat, rain and occasional floods, it is important to carefully select the materials to be used before starting any project,” she said.
She said the cost of restoration could be very high and the country should strive to avoid unnecessary expenses.
“Therefore, I believe the government should also prioritise the quality of construction materials as one of the main considerations in infrastructure development,” she added. – Bernama, September 13, 2023
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