KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 3 — The Rural and Regional Development Ministry (KKDW) estimates that it requires about RM4 billion annually to ensure the continued implementation of ongoing rural road projects and newly approved ones.
In a statement, the ministry said the requirement took into account the phased nature of rural road development projects, some of which required several years to complete.
For 2026, rural road projects were allocated RM2.107 billion, with 415 projects implemented as of Sept 1, involving expenditure of about RM1.995 billion, or 94 per cent of the allocation, it said.
“This reflects the active implementation of projects nationwide and the need to ensure that ongoing projects can continue in an orderly manner until completion,” it added.
KKDW said it had always taken appropriate measures to ensure that available allocations were utilised as effectively as possible, with priority given to the continuity of ongoing projects.
The ministry also expressed appreciation for the RM300 million approved by the Finance Ministry (MoF), saying the additional allocation would help meet the current needs of rural road projects.
KKDW said rural road development was not merely about implementing physical infrastructure projects, as good road connectivity had a direct impact on the daily lives of rural communities.
A well-developed rural road network, it said, not only made it easier for children to get to school and for residents to seek treatment at hospitals and clinics, but also helped farmers transport their produce to markets and enabled traders to carry out economic activities.
It also provided rural communities with better access to a range of essential services.
Given its importance, KKDW said it would continue to focus on the implementation of rural road projects to ensure that planned development was carried out effectively and that its benefits reached the people.
Meanwhile, the ministry said it would continue to work closely with MoF, the Economy Ministry and relevant agencies to ensure that project planning and funding requirements were better coordinated more effectively and sustainably.
At the same time, KKDW said all allocations would continue to be managed prudently and responsibly, in accordance with government financial procedures.
“KKDW’s priority remains the people – to ensure that rural development can continue, basic infrastructure is improved and its benefits reach communities in need,” the statement read.
Earlier today, Treasury secretary-general Tan Sri Johan Mahmood Merican said no restrictions had been imposed on KKDW’s allocation for rural road projects and that the funds had been fully disbursed.
He said KKDW had, over the past several years, made commitments and spent more than the annual allocations approved for rural road projects. — Bernama
