RM48.99 million for implementation of 330 projects

24th April, 2012

KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Housing & Local Government has approved a substantial allocation of RM48.99 million for the implementation of 330 projects by all local authorities in Sabah until April this year.Its Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Lajim Ukin said the amount is expected to help local authorities to resolve the existing problem of roads, ditches and drains in their respective area.“The ministry through the Department of Local Government is committed to provide funding in its efforts to create local authorities that are dynamic and competitive,” he said at the presentation of the 2012 Annual Grants & Contribution in lieu of Rates to the local authorities on Sunday night.“The ministry is prepared to provide additional allocations to local authorities in the State subject to the availability of funds and the performance of local authorities in implementing projects that had been approved,” he told reporters. At the event, Lajim handed over a total of RM63.31 million in Annual Grants and Assistance Rates Contribution to the 24 local authorities throughout Sabah.The amount comprised 2012 annual grants amounting to RM34.56 million and payment of contributions amounting to RM28.75 million.Lajim who is also the Member of Parliament for Beaufort hoped that the grants and contributions will be used to assist the local authorities in providing good services to the people.He also reminded local authorities to submit their annual audit reports on the implementation of projects undertaken during the year because the ministry will increase the allocation based on the commitment of respective local authority in the State. “Based on the commitment given by the ministry in distributing allocations, I hope that all local authorities can ensure that the projects implemented are monitored from time to time,” he said.“Each local authority should apply the element of monitoring as one of the local authorities’ commitment to ensure that all projects are implemented in line with the ‘Value for Money’ concept,” said Lajim.According to him, the monitoring process needs to be done starting from the planning stage through to the completion of a project with special focus on the activities and areas of work involved.“I am confident that by increasing monitoring frequency, the delay in the project will be addressed and this effort will hasten the project for the benefits of the people,” he remarked.Meanwhile, Local Government & Housing Minister Datuk Hajiji Mohd Noor said the annual grants given to local authorities in Sabah are for the third time since 2010.“Distribution of this financial assistance will further enhance the respective local authorities’ efforts in the preparation and maintenance of public facilities, including, the cleanliness and beautification of area within the jurisdiction of respective local authority,” he said. Also present were both Assistant Ministers of Local Government & Housing Datuk Edward Yong Oui Fah and Datuk Ghulam Haidar Khan Bahadar.

Source :  http://www.newsabahtimes.com.my/nstweb/fullstory/58145