Pan-Borneo will remain toll-free, assures Baru
Published on: Monday, October 15, 2018
Kota Kinabalu: The Pan Borneo Highway in Sabah and Sarawak will remain toll free, Works Minister Baru Bian assured Sunday.He said that from early on since Pakatan Harapan took over the Federal Government, the coalition had clearly stated that there would be no toll collection for the Pan Borneo Highway."I wish to reassure that there will be no tolls for the Pan Borneo Highway. This is our promise (by the Federal Government)," he told a press conference on the progress of the Pan Borneo Highway in Sabah, here, Sunday.
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He was asked to comment on the statement by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad recently that it would be difficult to build toll-free highways.He said the Prime Minister was referring to Peninsular Malaysia, and according to him, the development model and construction of the Pan Borneo Highway were not the same as those used in the peninsula.Baru also said the Fderal Government was committed to continue construction of the Pan Borneo Highway project in Sabah and Sarawak and see it completed on schedule."This is a project by the Federal Government and we want to see it completed well. I have mentioned previously that this is the biggest project for Sabah and Sarawak, and we will ensure that it will be completed."
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Noting that there were problems on the progress work of the 12 packages in Sabah, he said his Ministry was committed to resolve the issues."The key factor of delay (of Pan Borneo project) in the State is land acquisition, just like in Sarawak.
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"That is why we need the cooperation from the State Government as the matter falls under its jurisdiction."There are other factors such as payment to contractors…we will try to expedite the works," he said.He said he was also made to understand that the project delivery partner (PDP) will discuss with the State Government to resolve the issues.As for the cost, Baru said it was currently under review. "The federal Finance Ministry had discussed the matter and an independent consultant will be appointed soon. We can then compare the findings by the consultant with the current cost before discussing with the PDP about it as it involves legal matters," he said.Baru also said his ministry had taken note on the direction and future of the next batches of contracts which involve 23 packages of the total 35."My ministry and the Finance Ministry are still in the process of discussion to find the best option."We need to review the current system, especially on payments.Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
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