Kuala lumpur: Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi today assured that the ministry will meticulously oversee the Kota Bharu-Kuala Krai (KBKK) Expressway Package 2B project from Ketereh to Kok Lanas, aiming for its timely completion by August 2026. He reported that the project, which resumed in February, has achieved 6.1 percent completion, surpassing the scheduled progress by 5.1 percent.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the project involves constructing a 6.2-kilometer four-lane dual carriageway, currently contracted at RM73.7 million, with Daie Engineering Sdn Bhd responsible for completing the remaining work. Despite facing challenges such as land acquisition, utility coordination, labor shortages, unpredictable weather, and rising construction material costs, Nanta emphasized that the Works Ministry and the Public Works Department are dedicated to addressing these issues to ensure the project stays on track.

Nanta highlighted that Package 2B is a crucial segment of the 70.4 km KBKK Expressway, intended to alleviate congestion on Federal Route 8, particularly during festive seasons and school holidays. The new road will also reduce travel time from seven hours to four and a half hours, shorten travel distance by 24 km, enhance road safety, and unlock new economic opportunities for the local community.

He further stated that the project is vital not only for infrastructure development but also as a lifeline connecting the people of Kelantan to broader economic and social prospects. Upon completion, the highway will integrate into the Central Spine Road (LTU) network, enhancing connectivity between the East Coast and the Klang Valley.

Nanta expressed gratitude to all involved parties for their commitment and expressed hope that the people of Kelantan and the East Coast will soon benefit from this significant infrastructure project. He emphasized that timely completion is crucial, as the local population should not face further delays.