KUCHING: The Sarawak government is actively working to enhance the professionalism of local contractors as it embarks on significant investments in large-scale infrastructure development projects.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas stressed the critical need for improved efficiency and capacity among contractors to ensure the successful and timely delivery of projects to the desired standards.
He said this after the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the State Financial Secretary’s Office (SFSO), represented by deputy financial secretary Hasmawati Sapawi, and the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), led by chief executive officer Datuk Ir Ahmad Asri Abdul Hamid on Friday.
“The purpose of this MoU is to collaborate on digitising registration processes and transactions related to contractors and construction personnel in the state.
“It aims to enhance the management of contractor development and training programmes, monitoring and compliance, as well as facilitate information sharing through system integration and industry engagement,” Uggah explained.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to investing approximately RM30 billion in various infrastructure, telecommunication, water and power supply projects.
These extensive initiatives, he added, aimed at developing reliable and high-quality infrastructure throughout Sarawak, stimulating economic activities and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
As the Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development, Uggah emphasised the significant opportunities available to local contractors, underscoring the importance of nurturing their professionalism, efficiency and capacity.
He said that efficient and capable contractors play a crucial role in ensuring effective utilisation of government spending on development projects, thereby benefitting the wellbeing of the people.
Acknowledging the existence of both exemplary and problematic Bumiputera contractors, Uggah expressed gratitude for the collaboration with CIDB and their support in elevating Bumiputera contractors to achieve world-class performance standards.
He mentioned comprehensive programmes, financial assistance and machinery support as means to foster their development.
Additionally, Uggah highlighted the need to eliminate project delays and inefficiencies, thereby enhancing overall project success rates.
He explained on the establishment of Jawatankuasa Penilaian Tindakan Tatatertib by the SFSO to enforce disciplinary actions against errant contractors, including registration cancellations and blacklisting of shareholders and directors.
He said SFSO had issued a circular mandating that 30 per cent of state government projects be awarded to Bumiputera contractors, providing further opportunities for their participation in Sarawak’s development.
