Johor bahru: Road maintenance requires the commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders, including elected representatives and relevant agencies, to ensure issues are addressed promptly, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan said. He stated that he has instructed the Public Works Department (JKR) to expedite repairs on damaged roads and urged all parties to play their respective roles in ensuring the maintenance process runs smoothly.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad emphasized the necessity for assemblymen, Members of Parliament, and relevant local agencies to take action if roads are found to be in poor condition. In Johor, there are 10 district JKR offices that Ahmad has visited, where he received development briefings and urged them to act quickly whenever roads require attention.

Ahmad's comments came in response to the actions of Pakatan Harapan candidate for the Puteri Wangsa state seat, Dr Maszlee Malik, who recently drove along Jalan Tebrau to assess road conditions. On June 29, Maszlee drove a Perodua Myvi from Kampung Melayu Majidi to Ulu Tiram after receiving numerous complaints on social media regarding road conditions and traffic congestion. The former Education Minister later shared his experience, mentioning his vehicle jolted on uneven road surfaces and encountered heavy traffic during peak hours.

Ahmad further explained that allocations for the maintenance of federal roads, highways, and bridges are channelled through the State Economic Planning Unit (UPEN) and the state executive council. This process allows for applications to be assessed and prioritized before approval is granted.