Delayed MEX II project under review, says Works Minister
BUKIT KAYU HITAM: The government is working closely with all relevant stakeholders to resolve the prolonged delays affecting the Maju Expressway Extension (MEX II) project.
The project, originally slated for completion in December 2019, has been hampered by financial setbacks and is currently under the scrutiny of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi acknowledged that the highway project has faced persistent cash flow issues that halted construction.
However, Nanta said efforts are being stepped up to revive the stalled project.
"Yes, as everyone is aware, the MEX II project has experienced completion issues.
"But the good news is, all parties involved including the Finance Ministry, the Works Ministry and the Public Works Department (PWD) are actively engaged in resolving the matter," he said during a press conference during a work visit at the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex today.
Nanta said the project's developer is also accelerating efforts to secure new funding sources to push forward construction work.
"At present, the matter is still in the resolution phase, so I do not wish to make any detailed statements just yet," he added.
He said a series of key meetings are expected in the coming days to discuss the project, chaired by the Works Ministry deputy secretary-general.
"The meeting is expected to determine the next course of action. We will see what develops from there," he added.
The 18-kilometre extension to the Maju Expressway has come under renewed public attention following MACC probes into alleged false claims involving RM360 million.
The media reported that four individuals, including one bearing the 'Datuk Seri' title, were recently arrested in connection with the probe, believed to be linked to the funds raised through a sukuk issuance for the project.
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