Delays in completion of HTAR cost govt RM18m

PETALING JAYA: Weaknesses in the construction of an obstetrics complex in Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital (HTAR), Klang that led to delays in its completion has cost the government RM18.29 million.
According to the 2016 Auditor-General's report, shortcomings in the planning and supervision of the project by the Health Ministry, Public Works Department (PWD) and the appointed consultants led to contractor Pembinaan Sujaman Sdn Bhd being unable to commence work even after the handing over of the project site.
Phase 2 of the project, which involved the construction of hospital buildings for a period of 36 months, started on Sept 6, 2013 and was initially slated for completion on Sept 5, 2016.
This phase involved the construction of the eight-storey complex, a two-storey plant room, an overhead bridge, an elevator lobby, covered parking, covered pathways, landscaping works, and civil, structural, mechanical and electrical works.
"Failure of the consultants to perform their role effectively caused the contractor to apply for 36 variation orders and five remeasurement works with an additional cost of RM16.23 million and RM1.01 million respectively.
"Weaknesses of JKR and the consultants also resulted in the extension of time given to the contractor for 333 days, causing delays in the project's completion and incurring additional consultancy services costs amounting to RM1.05 million," the report noted.
Auditor-General Tan Sri Madinah Mohamad has ordered that any losses arising due to non-compliance, identified during inspections by a third party appointed by the government, should be borne by the officers or consultants who failed to supervise and execute their duties.
She also recommended that action be taken against officers who failed to examine, verify, validate and monitor the works of the consultants in accordance with the regulations.