By Danial Dzulkifly
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 14 – Ampang MP Rodziah Ismail wants immediate attention to be given to the East Klang Valley Expressway (EKVE), including a probe into the project, after it was met with prolonged delays despite initial plans to complete construction by 2019.
The Pakatan Harapan lawmaker said this, while expressing her concern over the government’s efficiency, or lack thereof, in implementing infrastructure projects after a couple developments in her constituency were postponed for years.
Speaking at the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) Mid-Term Review debates in Parliament, Rodziah noted construction for the EKVE project had commenced in 2015, with an initial completion date set for four years later.
“However, the project remains unfinished and is now only expected to be completed in 2024, after the developer was granted an Extension of Time on seven occasions,” he said in the Dewan Rakyat today.
“This project is of substantial significance, as it connects Ampang, Hulu Kelang, and all the way to Hulu Langat. Despite raising the issue on various platforms, I have received different responses.
“In light of this, I propose that the relevant agencies, in collaboration with the developer, conduct a thorough investigation to find a resolution to this matter.”
She also expressed her intention to escalate the matter to a special committee to seek a resolution for the highway’s completion if no investigation is conducted by the stakeholders.
Another project that has gotten Rodziah’s attention is the construction of SK Ukay Sering, which was approved under the 10th Malaysia Plan but is only set to commence at the end of this year.
“Due to these issues, I am compelled to question the government’s efficiency in executing these projects. I am determined to prevent a recurrence of similar issues in the future,” she said.
Separately, the Parti Keadilan Rakyat leader suggested that the government seriously consider updating certain existing laws and regulations to align with current needs.
Among them are the Architects Act 1967 (Amendment April 2015), Government Contracts Act 1949, Contracts Act 1950, Federal Roads (Private Management) Act 1984, Federal Roads Act 1959, Toll (Roads and Bridges) Act 1965, Land Acquisition Act 1960 (Amendment 2016), Town Planners Act 1995 (Amendment 2006), Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011, Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia Act 1994, and National Land Code.
Earlier today, Klang MP V. Ganabatirau had similarly urged the government to accelerate crucial infrastructure projects in Klang.
He pointed out that several projects, including a hospital in Kapar, schools in Kota Kemuning and Bukit Raja, and flood mitigation initiatives in the district, are still pending commencement despite receiving federal approval.
