GEORGE TOWN: Developer JKP Sdn Bhd has urged Penang government to form a task force to identify development projects in the state which involved one of its contractors who had provided building materials which were not according to specifications, resulting in them having to demolished two of their buildings under construction.
The two projects -- a joint venture between JKPSB and the state government -- were Mutiara Ria and Mutiara Rini in Jelutong.
JKPSB chief executive officer Samrulzaman K.Mohideen said this could prevent the recurrence of similar incidents in future.
"It is best for the state government to identify all projects involving the same contractor and take appropriate action now," he said in a statement issued this evening.
Samrulzaman said JKPSB had initiated legal proceedings against the contractor, after it was found to have provided building materials not according to specifications.
He said both projects started in 2015 and the same contractor was appointed through open tender process based on approval given by the board of directors.
However the construction works were suspended after the concrete testing failed.
"We view this matter seriously as our priority has always been the safety and quality of our projects," he said.
"The board of directors had in April this year decided to demolish both projects for the safety of all buyers, even before it was ordered to do so by the state government this month. The buildings will be demolished after the appointment of specialised consultants.
"Nevertheless, we are committed to completing both projects."
Samrulzaman said JKPSB had paid almost RM30 million to the contractor for both projects.
Mutiara Ria was a 17-storey building with a total of 192 low-cost units and 192 medium-cost units.
Mutiara Rini was an affordable housing project with 24 storeys and has a total 382 units. It is now partially constructed till the 15th floor.