KUCHING: Deliver, or get ready to be blacklisted.
That was the ultimatum issued by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein to contractors responsible for delayed projects involving the ministry.
“I will not compromise on this anymore... contractors who cause delays will be blacklisted. I assure you (contractors) that you will never get any projects from us again.
“If you cannot do it, give it to others. If there’s any issue involving the consultants, state agencies or other parties, report to me,” he said.
Speaking to reporters after visiting the site for the construction of a polyclinic in the Penrissen army camp here, an annoyed Hishammuddin said the project should have begun three to four months ago.
“Look... I only see excavators. (There have been) various reasons and challenges listed out, but I want the project to kick off immediately. I will come back to inspect it again in the next few months,” he said.
The RM31 million clinic was supposed to be completed in 24 months. Another four polyclinics will be built in army camps in Johor, Terengganu, Pahang and Kedah as announced in the 2018 Budget.
The government, said Hishammuddin, was committed to addressing issues faced by soldiers and their families, in terms of affordable housing, healthcare, education of their children as well as the rising cost of living.
“They (soldiers) are those who are posted at borders, protecting the country from threats and ready to sacrifice themselves for the nation. So, what are we doing here delaying the projects?
“If their families aren’t being well taken care of, how do we expect them to focus on their duties? When they are constantly worrying about their families at the camp, I can tell you, our borders and security will be at risk. Thus, I can no longer tolerate delays on these projects.
“I have given the warning... I will go down to the ground to monitor all the projects. I hope the contractors involved can act immediately as I mean business. The delays also mean that promises made by the government cannot be fulfilled,” he said.
On the Armed Forces Family Housing, Hishammuddin said a total of 40,627 units will be built nationwide, including 240 units in Penrissen camp here.
“A total of 9,096 units are in progress and the remaining units are expected to be completed in stages, by 2030,” he said.