MRT Is A Success Story, Najib Tells Dewan Rakyat

Malaysian Digest, 24 July 2017

Despite what critics may say, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has described the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Sungai Buloh-Kajang (SBK) Line as an unparalled 'success story'.

"The MRT SBK project was completed on schedule and RM2 billion was saved from the initial targeted cost. This is a success story for a project that is directly funded by the government and does not use concessions,” he said in Parliament today.

Najib addressed the criticism raised by many over the media hype during its launch last Monday and insisted that it was a necessary expense that was fully funded by the government.

“Majority of the people are satisfied with the services. If they say it is a waste, it is their political view,” said Najib, replying to Lipis MP Abdul Rahman Mohamad.

“The government was able to control and monitor the project closely in terms of governance, payments and implementations.

“In terms of governance the MRT is monitored by a executive committee led by Chief Secretary Ali Hamsa who ensured allocation and impediments are resolved.

“In terms of funding, it is the responsibility of MRT Corp owners and funds were obtained from Dana Infra Nasional through the publication of sukuk," the PM had listed the reasons why the MRT is a success story to an earlier question from Simpang Renggam MP, Liang Teck Meng.

Najib brushed aside the Opposition politicians earlier claims that the cost of constructing the MRT line was excessive.

“Among the exco members of the MRT Project include representatives from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and the National Audit Department. This means that the project would have a high level of transparency and integrity,” he concluded.

- mD

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