Kuala lumpur: The Works Ministry (KKR) has warned that strict action, including blacklisting, will be taken against contractors who fail to complete projects under the ministry within the stipulated timeframe without reasonable grounds. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi emphasized this stance during a recent event at the Public Works Department headquarters.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, an internal study by the ministry revealed that approximately 75 percent of project failures were attributable to the contractors' own management shortcomings. These included inefficiencies in project and financial management, procurement and stockpiling of construction materials, and manpower management. Additionally, failures by supervising officers (SO) to manage payments in accordance with verified work completion were also highlighted.

Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi stated, 'Contractors are entrusted with implementing projects responsibly, as every cent spent involves the people's money and public funds. I will not hesitate to take firm action if project implementation does not comply with the contractual terms and specifications that have been set.'

Despite the firm stance, Nanta mentioned that KKR would still consider contractors facing genuine difficulties beyond their control that affect project timelines. The ministry has strict standard operating procedures (SOP) to manage project delays, aligning with their goal of achieving zero sick or delayed projects.

Regarding the Sibu Prison project, Nanta noted that it involves a cost of RM275.33 million and a construction period of 36 months, with an expected completion by February 2029. He expressed optimism that the project would meet or exceed its schedule, underscoring its importance in reducing prison congestion by up to 19 percent and improving the readiness of prison officers to 75 percent.

Nanta concluded by challenging the project team to ensure it falls under the category of Zero Sick Projects, Zero Delays, Zero Extension of Time (EOT), and Zero Accidents on site, stressing that prolonged delays would hinder public benefit from government initiatives and prolong congestion in Malaysian prisons.