Ahmad Maslan
TAWAU (July 17): A RM97 million modern residential project is being built for military personnel in Tawau as the government remains committed to enhancing the nation’s defense ecosystem.
Today, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Ahmad Maslan conducted an on-site inspection to monitor the progress of the Additional Multi-Class Armed Forces Family Housing (RKAT) Project at Kabota Camp, Tawau.
This project is part of the government’s initiative to strengthen the welfare of defense personnel and their families by providing modern, comfortable, and safe housing. The project commenced on 2 May 2023 and is scheduled for completion by 31 October 2026. To date, physical progress stands at 14%, with expectations to meet the stipulated timeline, cost and specifications.
Upon completion, the project will include apartments, bungalows, houses, kindergarten and childcare center, multi-purpose court and playground, and new water tank tower.
These facilities will significantly benefit military personnel and their families, ensuring a more comfortable and balanced lifestyle.
The modern, well-equipped environment is also expected to boost morale and motivation as they fulfill their duties to the nation.
This project reflects the MADANI government’s dedication to delivering quality housing for the people, especially defense personnel, aligning with the core principles of Malaysia MADANI: compassion, wellbeing, confidence and sustainability.
Speaking to reporters later, Ahmad said the project must be completed by Oct 31 next year, as scheduled.
“There will be no third extension of time (EOT). Two EOTs have already been granted. This is a very urgent and necessary project. Once completed, it will greatly benefit military personnel and their families by easing their burden of high rental costs outside,” he said.
The Ministry of Works (KKR) urges the Public Works Department (JKR) to maintain rigorous oversight of the project’s progress, collaborate closely with the contractor, and conduct continuous stakeholder engagement and inspections. This ensures timely, cost-effective, and quality completion, accelerating benefits for public defense personnel and their families.
Meanwhile, Ahmad urged contractors using the Industrialised Building System (IBS) in government and major projects to produce components in situ or adjacent to the project site.
He said the move could help reduce costs and construction time, while also minimising the risk of damage to IBS materials.
“This came after I agreed to the proposal by the contractor for the Armed Forces Family Housing (RKAT) project at Kabota Camp here to establish a temporary site for IBS components.
“It is more economical if the IBS material moulds are made in situ. I believe this is a good solution for government projects. Otherwise, the materials would have to be transported by trailer from the SEDCO factory in Kota Kinabalu,” he said.
According to him, transporting materials to Tawau by trailer took 12 hours and posed various risks, including possible damage to IBS poles.
The post Modern residences for military personnel in Tawau appeared first on Borneo Post Online.