KUCHING: The Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) is set to embark on a landmark year of infrastructure development with an allocated budget of RM1.31 billion for 2025, representing a significant 63.9 per cent increase from the previous year's allocation.

The announcement, first highlighted by Sarawak Deputy Premier and Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting last November, compared this year's allocation to the RM799.52 million budget for 2024.

According to JKR Sarawak Director, Ir. Dr. Cassidy Morris, the department aims to ensure the efficient execution of its projects through enhanced planning, monitoring, and the adoption of innovative technologies.

“JKR Sarawak is reintroducing the JKR Project Dashboard, a proprietary platform designed to streamline project management.

“The upgraded dashboard will include mobile app integration and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, making it mandatory for reporting on all ongoing projects, including state and federal initiatives.

“With features like mobile access and AI integration, we look forward to a future where AI assists in project financial planning and internal audits,” he said when speaking at the JKR Sarawak Assembly 2025 held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Wednesday.

To support these ambitious initiatives, JKR Sarawak will welcome 414 new recruits in 2025.

Additionally, a comprehensive capacity study is underway to evaluate the need for further workforce expansion, ensuring that the department is adequately equipped to meet its growing responsibilities.

Addressing concerns about the maintenance of government assets, the JKR Sarawak Director emphasised the importance of proactive measures.

“Reports of potholes and poorly maintained roads would no longer be tolerated.

“Regional offices have been urged to escalate funding issues to higher management promptly for resolution.

“We must ensure efficient asset maintenance to reflect the quality and standards expected of JKR,” said Dr. Cassidy.

He added that the department is prioritising workforce training and upskilling, particularly in Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Highway Information Modelling (HIM).

By 2030, JKR aims to implement BIM in 100 per cent of its infrastructure projects.

Also present at the gathering were the top management of JKR Sarawak and thousands of its staff, who attended in person and via live online broadcasting statewide. -UKASnews