The Works Ministry (KKR) has reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitor infrastructure projects and take firm action against contractors who fail to meet agreed timelines.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said project delays typically stem from a combination of factors, including site-related complications involving multiple stakeholders such as state governments, local councils, and utility providers, as well as weak project management and financial constraints faced by contractors.
Despite these challenges, he noted that only around 3% of ongoing projects have been classified as delayed or problematic. He emphasised that this figure does not reflect the ministry’s overall performance, as the vast majority of projects are delivered on time or ahead of schedule.
To address underperforming projects, the ministry’s secretary general has established a special monitoring committee tasked with tracking progress and enforcing corrective measures in accordance with contractual and regulatory requirements.
Nanta stressed that construction contracts carry legal obligations, and project terminations cannot be executed arbitrarily without due process. He was responding to recent remarks by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who had urged KKR to take stricter action against contractors who are negligent or fail to complete projects as scheduled. The prime minister highlighted the importance of accountability, given the ministry’s role in delivering development projects that directly affect public welfare.
Separately, Nanta addressed the issue of road and street lighting, stating that KKR is working with relevant agencies and leveraging existing data to identify areas requiring additional lighting. Priority is being given to high-risk locations, including accident-prone road stretches, intersections, and bridges.
While the ministry aims to improve road safety coverage nationwide, resource constraints have limited the ability to install lighting across entire road networks. As a result, the current policy focuses on targeted installations in critical areas. Nanta added that KKR has submitted requests for additional budget allocations to expand street lighting coverage in the future.
From a property and investment standpoint, consistent infrastructure delivery and improved road safety play a vital role in supporting economic activity and urban growth. Reliable public works enhance accessibility and investor confidence in commercial property in KL, while efficient project execution supports industrial expansion across industrial land in Selangor. Improved road connectivity and safety also benefit key employment zones, including factory developments in Puchong, industrial property in the Subang area, and business districts anchored by office space in Bukit Jalil, where infrastructure quality remains a key driver of long-term value.
