KUALA LUMPUR – The River of Life (RoL) project is only 81% completed since its launch in 2018, after government expenditures of RM3.915 billion.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa (Sekijang-PH) told the Dewan Rakyat that even though the RM4.363 billion project is not fully completed, Sg Klang and Sg Gombak are seen as waterfront icons with substantial economic value.
“This progress is evident through the accolades received,” she said when winding-up the debate on the 2024 Auditor-General’s Report 2/2024.
The report previously highlighted that the project, which is the most costly ever undertaken in Malaysia in a complex urban area, might not meet its scheduled completion this year.
As of July 2023, 12 projects remained in the pre-implementation stage, eight were under implementation, and contractors had not been appointed for two projects following termination of previous contracts.
Furthermore, the objectives of the RoL initiative remain partially unmet, specifically in achieving the goal of enhancing water quality in the river to Class IIB standards, suitable for recreational activities involving direct contact with the water.
Additionally, beautification efforts along 2.2km of Sg Gombak have not taken place. – July 10, 2024