Kuala Lumpur:The allocation for minor works through District Engineers has been increased to RM40 million under Budget 2027, enhancing the efficiency of urgent, small-scale infrastructure repairs by eliminating lengthy financial application procedures.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi announced that the RM10 million increase from the previous RM30 million allocation is intended to improve the effectiveness of District Engineers in resolving infrastructure issues within their regions more swiftly.
This approach, initially introduced in 2024, will continue to be strengthened, ensuring that district-level problems are addressed promptly to enhance public service delivery. The Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, also emphasized the importance of this increased allocation in expediting road repairs, such as pothole patching.
Additionally, opportunities for G1 to G4 Bumiputera contractors will be bolstered through an increase in procurement value from RM4 billion to RM7.5 billion, marking an 87.5 percent rise. This procurement value, applicable across various agencies, supports the broader construction industry under the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and the Public Works Department (JKR).
Furthermore, Nanta highlighted the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras along the North-South Expressway (PLUS) to aid in traffic monitoring and enhance incident management. The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) has also received funds to build more shelters for motorcyclists, providing safe havens during adverse weather conditions.
Meanwhile, Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man (PN-Kubang Kerian) noted that Budget 2027 addresses numerous public issues but urged the government to focus on extending the East Coast Expressway (LPT) to Terengganu and balancing regional development. He also called for increased allocations for flood mitigation projects, suggesting a review of design standards to a 100-year Average Recurrence Interval (ARI) to better handle rising flood risks.