A matter of life and death
Let’s start with that in mind. To ensure we are clear this is a pressing issue.
Know the jurisdiction
This is important. So we don’t misplace the blame.
The main roads, especially the ones we use as entrance to Kelantan, are ‘federal roads’. It’s under the federal jurisdiction, not the state government’s.
Perhaps we used to blame the Kelantan government for the bad condition of federal roads. Now we can stop doing that.
Budget allocation
Let’s be blunt. The allocation is ridiculously low.
The Works Ministry needs RM2 billion per year for road maintenance.
However, in the 11th Malaysia plan, only 25 percent from the sufficient allocation was given.
In 2018, the allocation was only between RM600 million and RM800 million.
In 2019, even lower, with only RM100 million.
The solution
It should be a no-brainer. The federal government must allocate a sufficient budget.
The role of politicians
This matter is not a divisive issue between political rivals. All parties would agree that it must be solved urgently.
All politicians especially the MPs should play their role accordingly through proper forums.
The power of ‘rakyat’
The next general election is coming. The dynamic is now different, where all main political parties used to be the federal government, and used to be the opposition.
Hence the ‘rakyat’ have more political bargaining power. Use your voice and raise your concern about the insufficient budget for road maintenance.
MUHAMMAD NABIL ZULKIFLI
Darulnaim Research Centre – HARAKAHDAILY 18/5/2022
