BUTTERWORTH: The Malaysian government has estimated the cost of repairing roads damaged by the first wave of floods, brought on by the northeast monsoon, at RM312.1 million as of yesterday. The assessment covers maintenance and repairs needed for federal roads and state roads across the nation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi disclosed the breakdown of the estimated costs, which includes RM247 million for federal road maintenance, RM40.3 million for federal road slope repairs, and RM24.8 million for state roads. However, Nanta Linggi emphasized that these figures are not yet final, as the Works Ministry is continuing to evaluate the full scope of the damage and subsequent repair expenses.
Nanta Linggi stated that the final cost report will be submitted in the near future. He added that efforts are ongoing to assist those affected by the floods, including the activation of disaster operation rooms at the ministry level. Speaking at the National Technical Pro
fession Day (HPTN) 2024 celebration at the PICCA Convention Centre, Butterworth Arena, he noted that past experiences have better prepared the ministry for this year’s flood challenges.
The event was also attended by Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan and state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari. During his address, Nanta Linggi urged technical professionals to ensure project completion within specified timelines and requirements, in line with the MADANI government’s agenda to minimize wastage and mismanagement of resources.
He further highlighted the RM423 billion Budget 2025, which allocates RM88 billion for development expenditure, including RM2 billion for contingency funds. A significant portion of this budget is intended for national infrastructure and facilities development, a sector that relies heavily on the expertise of technical professionals.
Nanta Linggi underscored the importance of skills such as English proficiency, communication, project
management, and problem-solving for technical professionals, particularly as Malaysia continues to attract investments in technology-based industries. He also noted that HPTN 2024 successfully gathered leading corporate entities, including engineering firms and road maintenance concessionaires, who showcased their offerings at the event’s 37 exhibition booths.