MARA chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said they were taking strict measures and making internal improvements to address the issue of cartels among contractors at Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM) schools, reported The New Straits Times.
He said that under the current procedure, all contractors must undergo a rigorous process approved by Mara and the Finance Ministry.
He said these measures were taken as there had been cases of cartels among contractors at MRSM schools.
"The contractor selection process is indeed strict, but as I anticipated — and as rumoured when I assumed the role of chairman — there was speculation about the existence of cartels.
"That's why I need to go on the ground to verify these claims. And, it is indeed true. For instance, they have put in a nearby address during the application process.
"According to the SOP, priority is given when scores are tied. In such cases, preference is granted to local companies within proximity, so they can respond quickly in case of issues.
However, upon inspection, it sometimes turns out that these addresses were far away, raising concerns about fraud and deception," he said.
Asyraf added that as Mara chairman, it was his duty to ensure that every sen of public funds was utilised effectively — without negligence, leakage or waste. He acknowledged that while the cartel issue was not fully resolved, efforts were being made to address it.
"At the SOP level, we have introduced enhancements and added monitoring mechanisms at the management level and within Mara's central and educational institutions. I believe we are seeing positive developments," he said.
Asyraf also sent a clear warning to all contractors that Mara would not hesitate to take legal action if they were found to be negligent. - January 13, 2025
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