PITAS: Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said 72 of 111 dilapidated school upgrade projects in Sabah have been completed at a cost of RM359 million, with 37 more worth RM631 million under construction.
One project worth RM12.6 million is in the design stage and another worth RM54 million is at the procurement stage, bringing the total to nearly RM1 billion.
During a visit to SMK Pinggan-Pinggan in Pitas, Ahmad said all works are via open tender to ensure timely or early completion.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});The RM27 million SMK Pinggan-Pinggan project, 78pc complete, includes two hostel blocks, warden houses, a dining hall for 400 students, and support facilities.
The new hostel, to be completed in December 2025, will replace one located 1.3km away, which forces students to walk along busy roads without pedestrian paths.
Ahmad said it will improve safety, reduce absenteeism, and provide better living conditions.
He added that these projects reflect the Madani government’s commitment to improving rural education infrastructure and narrowing the urban-rural education gap.
