Kuala lumpur: The Works Ministry (KKR), through the Public Works Department (JKR), will closely monitor slopes identified as high-risk nationwide in preparation for the Northeast Monsoon, which is expected to begin on Nov 5 and continue until March next year. Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi emphasized the importance of this monitoring exercise, as between five and seven episodes of heavy rainfall are forecast during the period.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JKR has already installed 73 rain gauge stations, three Robotic Total Stations (RTS), and one Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) unit to monitor these high-risk slopes. Based on data obtained from the Early Warning System, the Slope Engineering Branch of JKR Malaysia will issue early alerts to district and state JKR offices based on the risk level-alert, warning, or danger. Nanta highlighted the shared responsibility of swift action, coordination, and preparedness to protect lives, property, and infrastructure during the ministry's monthly assembly.

Nanta also expressed his appreciation for the allocation provided to the ministry under the MADANI Budget 2026, viewing it as a recognition of the ministry's role as a key facilitator of national development. He noted that despite fiscal challenges and the need for subsidy restructuring, the government remains dedicated to enhancing essential public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, public buildings, and slope safety.

However, Nanta acknowledged existing weaknesses in project implementation, as highlighted in the Auditor-General's Report No. 3/2025, which pointed out issues like project delays, non-compliance with specifications, and inadequate supervision. He stressed the importance of addressing these issues comprehensively and responsibly, noting that repeated mistakes would reflect human failure rather than system weaknesses.

Additionally, Nanta commended the construction sector's performance during the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), which saw nearly 23,000 projects worth over RM42 billion nationwide. He stated that the challenges in the first phase of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) would require the ministry to be proactive, efficient, data-driven, and accountable. He emphasized the need for KKR to balance social responsibility with fiscal constraints, ensuring that every ringgit allocated delivers maximum impact.