State and municipal authorities must strictly follow the Public Works Ministry’s (KKR) standard operating procedures (SOP) to ensure damaged federal roads are repaired within 24 hours, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan emphasised.

Speaking at the KKR Media Night and CIDB Media Awards 2024, Ahmad Maslan highlighted discrepancies in adherence to these guidelines, particularly for non-federal roads under state and municipal jurisdiction. These roads, managed by state Public Works Departments (JKR) and local authorities, often fail to meet the ministry’s stipulated standards for prompt repairs.

According to Bernama, he stated that “It is our hope that incidents like the one in Johor—where an individual was awarded RM720,000 in restitution after sustaining serious injuries from a pothole accident—serve as a lesson. The court’s decision to hold the municipal concession accountable underscores the importance of maintaining roads quickly, carefully, and properly.”

The incident in Johor involved a motorcyclist who suffered injuries to the head, body, arms, and legs after hitting a pothole, leading to a lawsuit against the concessionaire responsible for the road. Ahmad Maslan stressed that such cases should motivate authorities to act swiftly in addressing road maintenance issues to prevent further accidents and legal liabilities.

To facilitate public involvement in reporting road problems, Ahmad Maslan encouraged the use of the MYJalan app. Launched over a year ago, the platform operates under the theme of a “no wrong door policy,” ensuring that complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

The minister called for greater accountability and efficiency in road maintenance to enhance public safety and avoid costly legal consequences.