PENAMPANG: Coordination issues between contractors and government agencies have been identified as prime factors contributing to delays in the timely completion of the Pan Borneo Highway (LPB).

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said that his ministry had engaged with the Sabah government to establish regular coordination meetings aimed at addressing these issues effectively.

He was referring to the discussion that took place with Sabah Deputy Chief Minister cum Sabah Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya.

"We acknowledge there are some coordination problems between the contractors, government agencies, and consultants. Each party has its own shortcomings.

"However, I have instructed discussions with Shahelmey and JKR Sabah (Sabah Public Works Department) to ensure that coordination meetings are held frequently.

"Additionally, there are other factors such as financial issues faced by contractors. Some of them claim that their claims are processed slowly, but upon review, we found that the documents submitted were incomplete, leading to mutual blame among contractors," he said.

He made these comments to the media after inspecting the Pan Borneo Highway Sabah Phase 1A project and flood mitigation works today.

Present were Shahelmey Yahya and Semporna MP Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal.

Alexander also reported that the current physical progress of Phase 1A (15 work packages) is at 77.41 percent, with four packages already completed.

The completed packages are Donggongon to Papar, Kampung Lot M to Batu 32, Tawau to Semporna , and Lahad Datu Bypass.

He said that 11 packages are still under construction, with a projected overall completion by March 2026.

Meanwhile, Alexander said that his current inspection also focused on managing flood incidents in Sabah, particularly in Penampang, which is near the LPB Sabah project area.

He added that PWD, together with Irrigation and Drainage department (JPS) and local authorities (PBT), will take immediate action in the event of any flood incidents along the LPB Sabah project construction area to minimise adverse effects on the local community and overall project impact.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1083388/coordination-issues-delay-completion-pan-borneo-highway-sabah