PETALING JAYA: Developers of the northern double-tracking project from Ipoh to Padang Besar said on March 12 that the project was on schedule as it would "work around" any anticipated obstacles.MMC-Ganmuda JV Sdn Bhd director Datuk Azmi Mat Nor told reporters at a media briefing here that the project has not been delayed despite warnings several months ago from Gamuda's CEO Datuk Lin Yun Ling that land acquisition problems might stall the project.
"As with any big project, there will be problems," Azmi said, noting they will work around the problem. "Whatever we can do, we will do. The track is long - 329 kilometres - so we will work around whatever problem."
He added the project was now 21.4% completed, costing about RM2.8 billion, which is within the developer's forecasts. Raw material costs so far has amounted to RM3 billion.
Azmi said what was more important was how the project contributed to the economic welfare of residents in the northern states especially during this time of crisis.
MMC-Gamuda has awarded 400 contracts so far worth about RM10 billion, and was expected to award another 100 contracts worth RM2 billion.
Using Bank Negara Malaysia's guided multiplier factor of 1.7 times, Azmi said the spinoffs from the 400 contracts awarded so far could be equivalent to RM15 billion.
The RM12.485 billion projected cost of the two electrified railway tracks across Perak, Penang, Kedah and Perlis is expected to be completed on Jan 7, 2013. There have been no changes to the plan.
Written by By Fong Min Hun
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