KUALA LUMPUR – Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said he approved the multimillion-ringgit renovations on Seri Perdana after receiving a detailed report from the Prime Minister’s Department (PMD) on the complex’s extensive damage.
In a statement today, the former prime minister said he received the report as the building, which is the prime minister’s official residence, is under the department’s purview.
“The damage involves leaks, old lighting systems, poor flooring conditions, and damaged roofing.
“The leaking roof and piping systems caused damage to the built-in cabinets, wooden flooring, wall panels and ceiling.
“I was also informed that the electrical wiring, and lighting and mechanical equipment, such as the air conditioning, had to be repaired as they were too old.”
According to an expert review, he said, Seri Perdana’s wiring system, which was over 20 years old, could pose a fire risk if repairs were not carried out immediately.
“Based on the report that I received, PMD also recommended the procurement of furniture as most of the assets at Seri Perdana said to belong to the sixth prime minister (Datuk Seri Najib Razak) had been moved out.
“As the building sustained severe physical damage, in addition to obsolete wiring and mechanical systems, a large part of the repairs involved construction, and electrical wiring and mechanical work.
“The size of Seri Perdana, which covers an area of more than 5,202 sq m, also makes the cost of repairing the government-owned building quite high.”
He stressed that the decision to renovate the complex was to restore a symbol of the institution of the head of government, and the image of the country, to its original, pristine condition.
“If it wasn’t repaired immediately, the government heritage building would suffer more damage, which would definitely increase the cost of repairs.
“To ensure that the restoration work is carried out in accordance with the specifications set, and will yield quality results, the renovations are closely monitored by a task force comprising officers from the Public Works Department (PWD) and PMD.
“I believe that PWD and PMD, which are directly involved in the refurbishment of Seri Perdana, have detailed information on the implementation of this project.
“In line with the principles of transparency and integrity practised by the government, the relevant departments are welcome to provide clarification to the public on this matter.”
Muhyiddin stressed that he never occupied Seri Perdana during his time as prime minister.
His response comes after Special Functions Minister Datuk Abd Latiff Ahmad yesterday said plans to renovate the complex to the tune of RM38.5 million were given the green light in March, when Muhyiddin was at the helm. – The Vibes, September 30, 2021
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