Kuala lumpur: Complacency, coupled with a lack of responsibility and accountability in managing government projects, continues to fuel the recurring wastage of taxpayers' money. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir stressed that although the country has been independent for nearly 70 years and governments have changed over time, the same weaknesses continue to persist, resulting in projects funded by taxpayers' money facing various problems.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Akmal Nasrullah emphasized that his criticism of the water treatment plant (LRA) project in Kedah was not intended to blame any party but to ensure that shortcomings in the management of government projects are addressed. He acknowledged the dissatisfaction from some quarters regarding his remarks on the LRA project, noting that some have labeled him outspoken for highlighting management weaknesses in taxpayer-funded projects.

Akmal Nasrullah noted that while some believe his ministerial role should focus solely on policy, he remains unapologetic in stating that the status quo cannot persist. The issue transcends policy, as government policies are expected to evolve with changing needs, but there is a pressing need for a shift in attitudes and mindsets.

He also revealed his long-term involvement with the Kedah LRA project, which he has monitored from its time under the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry (PETRA) to its current coordination by the Economy Ministry. Despite raising several concerns, Akmal Nasrullah has observed that necessary improvements were not implemented, leading to the very issues he cautioned against.

'I have done all I could, but my warnings went unheeded until it was too late,' he stated, reflecting on the lack of action taken to address the identified problems.