KKR Details RM5M Road Works in Kapar, Mulls Special Road Maintenance Fund

The Works Ministry (KKR) has indicated that it is open to studying a proposal to create a special fund for road maintenance in industrial and high-economic activity areas.

Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi told the Dewan Rakyat that no official proposal has been submitted so far, but the ministry would consider the idea if it could help improve road safety and comfort, particularly in key growth regions.

He was responding to Dr Halimah Ali (PN-Kapar), who suggested the establishment of such a fund to maintain roads in strategic industrial zones like Kapar, an area that contributes significantly to Malaysia’s GDP.

Nanta explained that the Public Works Department (JKR) is always exploring the best methods for road upkeep, including research on more durable pavement materials capable of handling heavy industrial traffic. 

He added that KKR is also ready to work with local councils, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, and other agencies that regularly coordinate road-related issues.

In addressing the matter, Nanta also gave specific updates on short- and long-term measures for Kapar’s road network. He said that the government recognises the urgent need to address damage caused by repeated heavy vehicle movement in the area.

For the short term, KKR has allocated RM3.5 million for periodic pavement maintenance and RM1.75 million for non-pavement works in Kapar. 

Roads involved include Jalan Klang–Sabak Bernam (FT005), Jalan Pintasan Selat Klang Utara (FT020), and Jalan Masuk Ke Kawasan Perindustrian Meru (FT3217). Resurfacing works are underway and expected to be completed by Oct 2025.

As a longer-term solution, the West Coast Expressway (WCE), which passes through Kapar, is expected to help ease chronic congestion. At the same time, KKR has tabled several projects under Rolling Plan 1 of the 13th Malaysia Plan. 

These include upgrading Jalan Perindustrian Kapar Meru (FT3217) from Persimpangan Jalan Haji Abdul Manan to Persimpangan Jalan Limau in Klang, and a proposed pedestrian bridge in front of SMK Tengku Idris Shah, Jalan Kapar (FT005).

At the policy level, KKR has also launched the Highway Network Development Plan (HNDP) 2030 to identify future needs for road upgrades and new alignments. Among the priorities highlighted are new links around Northport and Westport, with a 3.26KM stretch planned under the “Beyond 2030” strategy.

Nanta stressed that the ministry will continue to ensure that roads in Kapar and nationwide remain safe, comfortable, and sustainable in order to support the well-being of the people and the smooth flow of the economy.