KOTA KINABALU: The Housing and Local Government Ministry will closely monitor all development projects it approved for implementation in Sabah, says its minister Nga Kor Ming.

He said there were several “sick” projects in the state, emphasising his ministry’s commitment to ending this issue.

“I have inherited many sick projects in Sabah, and we are determined to put a stop to this,” he told reporters during the ministry’s Sentuhan Kasih tour in Luyang yesterday.

“From now on, we will monitor meticulously to ensure that in the future, there will be no more sick projects in Sabah or any other states,” he added.

Fortunately, none of the government projects in Sabah have been abandoned, he said. The issues only involve delays or projects not being implemented according to schedule.

“It’s good, but we want better, and we aim for the best because we believe the ministry is the centre of excellence. The ministry is a platinum-rated ministry, one of the best-performing ministries and we feel obliged to maintain this prestigious status.”

Earlier, Nga announced that his ministry had approved 38 projects in Sabah and allocated more than RM217mil. These projects involve public infrastructure development and upgrades, housing, landscaping, community well-being as well as financial aid for the repair and maintenance of non-Islamic houses of worship.

Nga said that Sabah is always poised to receive support and benefits as a state aligned with the Federal Government.

“I have also received assurance from Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor for the state and Federal Government to work as a team to rebuild our beloved country.”

The projects are expected to be implemented soon, with many set for completion by December.

“The allocations have already been given, but we are only making an announcement now to ensure the work can be done and completed for Sabahans to see, feel and experience the positive changes brought by the Madani government,” he added.

Nga also mentioned that the ministry would closely monitor local authorities, especially regarding financial management and performance. All funds allocated to local authorities are based on performance and merit.

Local authorities, he said, are required to meet their key performance index, including conducting feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses.

“The most important aspect is that all projects must not only have a high impact but also provide a return on investment for the people. All this will be considered when evaluating future funding applications,” Nga said.

He added that the ministry would increase funding for local authorities that perform well and reduce allocations for those that fail to meet expectations.

“Whatever is good, we will give credit and whatever is not, they will face the music,” he said.

“This is a performance and merit-based government because Malaysians deserve nothing less.”

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/27/nga-sabah-projects-to-be-closely-monitored