Stronger oversight, accountability a must for infrastructure projects

The Star

25-07-2025

AS Malaysia continues to expand its transport network with ambitious projects like MRT3, MCA Youth firmly believes that public safety must be the cornerstone of all infrastructure development.
Recent incidents, such as the Jalan Masjid India sinkhole which claimed the life of a woman from India, serve as stark reminders of the devastating consequences when safety is compromised and maintenance ignored.
These tragedies are not merely accidents but systemic failures that underscore the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we approach infrastructure planning, construction and maintenance.
Safety cannot be an afterthought.
It must be embedded from the earliest stages of design, with rigorous risk assessments, adherence to global standards, and robust engineering redundancies.
Experts like Associate Professor Bernard Saw Lip Huat of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman's Faculty of Engineering and Science rightly warn that cutting corners in safety jeopardises lives and erodes public trust, which is far costlier to restore than investing properly from the outset.
Equally critical is the need for consistent funding for maintenance, as highlighted by Associate Professor Wan Mazlina Wan Mohamed of the Malaysia Institute of Transport, who advocates allocating 2.5% of GDP annually to preventive upkeep -- a benchmark aligned with global best practices.
However, our challenges extend beyond technical solutions.
Fragmented oversight among agencies like APAD, LLM, and CIDB creates gaps in enforcement and coordination, particularly at project interfaces near schools or hospitals.
To address this, we propose three key measures: Prioritise safety in procurement criteria and contract awards.
Expand public engagement to incorporate community feedback in risk assessments.
Invest in training for regulators and contractors to align with evolving global standards.
The recent example of KLIA's Aerotrain -- where 2,000km of fault-free testing preceded public operation -- demonstrates that delays for safety are not setbacks but necessities. Let this be our standard.
As Malaysia progresses, we must reject the false dichotomy between speed and safety. Infrastructure is the backbone of our nation's future; it must be resilient, reliable and above all, safe for every citizen who relies on it.
MIKE CHONG YEW CHUAN
Deputy Chairman
MCA National Youth