Kuala lumpur: A 300 per cent increase in allocations for the maintenance of federal roads in Sabah and Sarawak this year clearly reflects the MADANI Government's commitment to ensuring that basic infrastructure needs in both states receive due attention, while also strengthening the involvement of local Bumiputera small-scale contractors. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi emphasized this development as a significant measure to bolster infrastructure in these regions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, in 2024 and 2025, Sabah and Sarawak each received only RM50 million for road maintenance. However, the allocation has surged to RM200 million for each state this year, marking a substantial 300 per cent increase. Nanta highlighted that this decision underscores the MADANI government's attentiveness to the infrastructural needs of Sarawak and Sabah, providing far greater allocations compared to previous years.
At a press conference held in conjunction with the ballot draw for the 2026 Sarawak federal road periodic maintenance works, Nanta detailed the RM200 million allocation for Sarawak. It involves 141 federal road maintenance projects managed by concession company DAL HCM Sdn Bhd, which cover both pavement periodic and non-pavement periodic maintenance works.
Nanta also pointed out that this initiative serves as an important platform to empower Bumiputera small-scale contractors in Grades G1 to G4. Through a transparent balloting process based on actual needs, the government aims to create more opportunities for local contractors to directly participate in the country's infrastructure development.
The minister emphasized the importance of quality and responsibility in project execution. Contractors are expected to maintain high standards to ensure road user safety. Nanta warned that poor maintenance could lead to serious consequences, including accidents or loss of life, and stressed that the government has established clear standard operating procedures (SOPs). Contractors failing to meet these standards may face penalties, including blacklisting.