By Olivia Miwil
KOTA BELUD: A newly appointed project manager came under fire from Sabah Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar over inconsistencies and a prolonged delay in a RM30 million fishermen relocation project in Kampung Bira Biraan.
Jamawi, who conducted a site visit today, expressed frustration over the slow progress of the project, which has been pending since 2013 and was meant to resettle local fishermen into new homes.
"These villagers have waited 13 years. We worked hard to secure federal funding, yet we are still being asked why the project is not completed. It is embarrassing," he said in a Facebook post that has since gone viral.
He also questioned the project manager, appointed only two weeks ago and who arrived late for the briefing, over conflicting explanations regarding subcontracting and joint venture arrangements.
Jamawi also criticised the absence of the licence holder, saying he had specifically requested their attendance.
"Earlier you said there were no subcontractors, then later you said it was a joint venture. Which is correct?
"I am here to solve problems, not listen to excuses. If the licence holder does not want to attend, why should I?" he said in a heated exchange.
"This is a RM30 million project. It should not be treated lightly. So many officers have come here, yet the contractor still fails to show up. You are wasting everyone's time," he added.
He said several subcontractors had independently approached him during the visit, contradicting earlier claims that no subcontracting arrangements existed.
Jamawi instructed authorities to review the contractor's performance, adding that two notices had already been issued.
"If they are unable to complete the work, terminate them and appoint someone serious about delivering the project," he said.
The briefing was also attended by Kota Belud MP Isnaraissah Munirah Majilis of Parti Warisan.
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