Latest news with #StateLegislativeAssembly
The Hindu
an hour ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Aaditya Thackeray demands probe into scrapped MMRDA tenders
Aaditya Thackeray, who represents the Worli constituency in the State Legislative Assembly, on Saturday (May 31, 2025) called upon Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to initiate a probe against Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, following the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority's (MMRDA) decision to cancel the tender process for two major infrastructure projects in Mumbai. The two projects in question are the ₹6,000-crore Mumbai Elevated Road Project, involving a 9.8-kilometre bridge along the Vasai Creek, and the ₹8,000-crore Road Tunnel Project, which includes the construction of five-kilometre twin tunnels from Gaimukh to the Fountain Hotel Junction on Thane's Ghodbunder Road. 'Why should the government back down? No contractor goes against the government for one tender. This is only a scam. Cancelling the tender does not mean everything is clean. You [the MMRDA] had a hanging sword which is why you had to cancel the tender,' Mr. Thackeray said. 'Will CM Fadnavis get the matter probed by EOW, IT or ED? The CM should himself take charge of the MMRDA,' he continued. 'Shinde's corruption is proved. Will you sack him from the cabinet till the probe gets over? He has to face action,' Mr. Thackeray added. The statement gains significance as the MMRDA, which operates under the Urban Development Department led by Mr. Shinde, informed the Supreme Court that it was cancelling two tenders linked to the Gaimukh-Ghodbunder-Bhayander project. The authority said it would issue fresh tenders 'to safeguard larger public interest'. Further, the MMRDA stated that it was actively considering a downward revision of the base cost by ₹3,000 crore, based on financial bids disclosed during ongoing litigation. The Supreme Court, while hearing a petition filed by infrastructure major Larsen & Toubro (L&T) challenging its disqualification from the tender process, also expressed criticism over the MMRDA's handling of the matter. Mr. Thackeray noted that the original tender was floated on September 13, 2024, with a bid submission deadline of October 3, 2024 — a window typically reserved for emergency projects. 'Such short notice is not appropriate for large-scale infrastructure works,' he said, adding that the deadline was only extended to 60 days after he raised objections. He further alleged that the terms of the tender were crafted in a manner that would favour 'preferred contractors.'
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
ROSE calls for transparency in Sarawak govt's overseas trip expenditures
ROSE has voiced concern over recent statements from the State Legislative Assembly (DUN), including the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, who argued against disclosing the costs of these trips, citing the economic 'returns' they have brought to Sarawak. KUCHING (May 29): Persatuan Pemangkin Daya Masyarakat (ROSE) has urged the Sarawak government to reconsider its current approach and publish itemised reports on public expenditures related to official overseas trips, particularly those involving top state leadership. ROSE voiced concern over recent statements from the State Legislative Assembly (DUN), including the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, who argued against disclosing the costs of these trips, citing the economic 'returns' they have brought to Sarawak. 'ROSE extends its congratulations to the state leadership for successfully securing billions of ringgits in investments for Sarawak. These achievements are commendable and reflect the capability of the government in pursuing development and economic growth for the state. 'However, it must be clearly stated that the returns or benefits gained from these trips must not be used as justification to avoid transparency and accountability. Public spending and investment outcomes are two distinct matters, and both must be subject to scrutiny,' said the civil society organisation in a statement today. ROSE emphasised that the people have a right to know how much public funds were spent on official international travel, stressing that transparency is not a political attack, but a fundamental pillar of responsible and trustworthy governance. 'Civil society organisations, including ROSE, have a legitimate role in monitoring, reviewing and offering constructive feedback to ensure public funds are spent prudently and ethically.' ROSE said it was deeply concerned by recent developments in the DUN involving the 2025 Supplementary Supply Bill, particularly the allocation of an additional RM100 million to the Premier's Department for chartered flight services. 'What is more troubling is that questions raised about this expenditure were disallowed, effectively shutting down avenues for public scrutiny and parliamentary oversight. 'Simultaneously, the approval of a taxpayer-funded study tour to the United States for assembly members raises pressing concerns about the state government's spending priorities and its commitment to transparency and accountability,' it said. ROSE stressed that these are legitimate concerns, particularly when ordinary Sarawakians are struggling economically. It added that elected representatives should lead by example by ensuring transparency, justifying expenses and staying accountable to the people who put them in office. 'ROSE firmly believes that a strong government has nothing to fear from transparency. In fact, openness strengthens public trust and reinforces the legitimacy of the government's efforts.'
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Toastmasters gain insight into Sarawak's legislative process in visit to DUN
Ho (fifth left) and the Toastmasters International District 87 delegation in a group photo with Dr Sim (fourth left) and Kho (left). KUCHING (May 28): A group from the Toastmasters International District 87 club gained firsthand insight into the state's legislative process and the role of public institutions in nation-building during a visit to the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex on Tuesday. According to a statement, the visit was made possible through a special invitation by a political secretary to the Premier, Kho Teck Wan, who shared an overview of the DUN's history, structure and significance. She also explained the state's decision-making process, which sparked meaningful discussion among the attendees. A key highlight of the visit was a dialogue session with Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who shared his perspective on the responsibilities of elected representatives and the far-reaching impact of the laws passed. 'Laws passed here are not merely procedures – they shape development, safeguard our future, and reflect the aspirations of all Sarawakians,' he said. Division D director Dr Lucy Ho Jia Yiing described the visit as inspiring. 'We are grateful for this opportunity. It was more than just a visit – it was a reminder that public speaking is not just about confidence, but also purpose, civic awareness, and the courage to engage with systems that shape our society,' she said. Toastmaster Chua Wei Ling of Azam Toastmasters Club said the visit helped her reconnect with her heritage. 'As an 'Anak Sarawak' returning from overseas, this visit helped me reconnect deeply with my roots. It reminded me that we, as Toastmasters, are not just speakers – we are empowered citizens who can carry the Sarawak spirit forward through leadership, service, and storytelling,' she said. The visit reinforced the importance of civic education, youth involvement, and people-oriented leadership, leaving members inspired to contribute with purpose. Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organisation dedicated to empowering individuals through communication and leadership training.
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Joint declaration marks new era of S'wak-federal cooperation on resource governance, says SUPP sec-gen
KUCHING (May 28): The joint declaration signed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on May 21 is a significant milestone in redefining federal-state relations, particularly in the governance of natural resources, said Datuk Sebastian Ting. Speaking at a press conference at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today, the Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) secretary-general said this agreement reflects a collaborative and constructive approach between the federal and state governments, setting a commendable precedent for resolving resource-related issues amicably and in a mutually-beneficial manner. 'In essence, SUPP views the joint declaration as a balanced and strategic approach to resource governance – an important step towards realising Sarawak's aspirations for greater autonomy and equitable development. 'We remain committed to supporting its implementation and to ensuring that its agreed-upon principles are translated into benefits for the people of Sarawak,' he said. He pointed out the arrangement between Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) was a true 'win-win' outcome – one grounded in a shared understanding while respecting each party's rights and responsibilities. He said the decision was in full alignment with Sarawak's Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016 (DGO 2016), reinforcing the state's legal framework for the management of its gas resources. 'The joint declaration acknowledges both the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA) and DGO, ensuring that federal and state laws co-exist and are respected by all parties involved in the oil and gas industry, including Petronas,' he said. He said the declaration reaffirms the commitment to uphold Sarawak's rights and autonomy as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report, and the Sarawak and Federal Constitutions. 'On behalf of SUPP and all my fellow ADUNs (elected representatives) – some are here with me today – we wish to commend and congratulate our Right Honourable Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari for his inspiring, comprehensive and forward-looking winding-up speech. 'We also wish to congratulate the Prime Minister and our Premier for the signing of the joint declaration,' he said.
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak targets seamless 13MP execution with IRBM, value management, says Premier
Abang Johari explains that IRBM would serve as the foundation of the framework by ensuring that all projects align with Sarawak's 2030 development goals through strategic planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation. – Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (May 28): The Sarawak government will implement a comprehensive delivery framework to ensure the successful execution of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) for the state's development from 2026 to 2030, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. He said the framework would incorporate Integrated Results-Based Management (IRBM), Results-Based Budgeting, and Value Management to enable seamless coordination and performance monitoring of all initiatives under the plan. 'A strong plan alone is not enough. Sarawak's future depends on how well we execute it and how accountable we are in delivering results. 'To ensure the success of the 13MP, we will implement a comprehensive delivery framework, incorporating Integrated Results-Based Management (IRBM), Results-Based Budgeting and Value Management for seamless coordination and performance monitoring,' he said in his winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly sitting here today. He explained that IRBM would serve as the foundation of the framework by ensuring that all projects align with Sarawak's 2030 development goals through strategic planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation. 'Results-Based Budgeting will enhance resource efficiency, linking funding to measurable outcomes,' he added. Abang Johari also stressed that every proposed project under the 13MP would undergo rigorous evaluation at the entry point to ensure its viability, readiness, and accurate cost estimation. 'Additionally, through Value at Entry, every proposed project will undergo a thorough assessment to ensure viability, readiness, and accurate cost estimation, reducing delays and improving execution,' he said. According to the Premier, Sarawak's 13MP will be driven by 10 high-level strategies and a reinforced focus on 15 socio-economic sectors and enablers in line with the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030. 'The 13th Malaysia Plan (2026-2030) serves as a crucial planning framework that reinforces our long-term vision,' he said. 'As we stand at the midpoint of PCDS 2030 and the final year of the 12th Malaysia Plan, we must now advance with speed, clarity and purpose.' He noted that the 13MP is designed to ensure Sarawak's development strategies and actions remain consistent with its aspirations, and are responsive to evolving economic, social, and governance dynamics. Among the 10 high-level strategies outlined are accelerating the clean energy transition, building a high-quality and inclusive society, optimising land use, attracting strategic industries, enhancing public safety and disaster preparedness, and fostering a strong and resilient Bumiputera business community. 13MP abang johari DUN IRBM
