Pan Borneo Highway project in Sarawak to be completed this year, says works minister

• "Some changes still need to be done to the design because of soil problems at the locations involved. That’s why the work progress of the project has yet to reach 100%."

KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 8): The works ministry (KKR) will ensure the completion of the Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway (LPB) project this year, said its minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi (pictured).

He said the work progress of the project has reached 98.91%.

"Some changes still need to be done to the design because of soil problems at the locations involved. That’s why the work progress of the project has yet to reach 100%," he said at a press conference after delivering his new year mandate and monthly assembly with the ministry’s staff at the Public Works Complex, here on Thursday.

Regarding the Sabah LPB project, Nanta said progress was at 87% for Phase 1A, which involves 15 work packages.

Phase 1B, which involves 19 work packages, is still in the tender process, he added.

In another development, Nanta said the West Coast Expressway (WCE) which connects Banting, Selangor, and Taiping, Perak, is scheduled to open on March 1.

“WCE will be an alternative route for the North South Expressway (PLUS), especially to reduce congestion during the festive season.

“These mega projects will also help boost the country’s economy and development," he said.

Earlier, Nanta, when addressing staff of the ministry, told them to be proactive in carrying out their tasks and not just wait for complaints from the people, especially regarding road issues.

“I understand that many complaints have been acted upon immediately, but there are also complaints that take too long to be dealt with... this affects the people's trust in us.

“Therefore, the main thing I want to emphasise here is that there is no need to wait for complaints to carry out road repairs. And don't sweep (complaints)  under the carpet. Stop the attitude of waiting for issues to get viral first to act," he said.

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