KULAI – Roadworks across Malaysia are expected to face completion delays as contractors find it challenging to proceed with the high diesel prices, said its Deputy Works Minister Ahmad Maslan.

He said this was because most of the heavy machinery involved in such projects like steamrollers and lorries run on diesel.

“I have received several requests from contractors for a time extension and project slowdowns, including activating only half of their machinery,” he said after a meeting with the Kulai Public Works Department here on April 13.

“For example, they have 10 machines on-site and they want to operate only five.

“This affects road repairs and construction of new roads.

“Officially, we cannot allow them to stop work because this will cause delays, but I will bring up the matter for post-Cabinet discussions this week.”

Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad estimated that more than one-third of the 855 ongoing projects under his ministry would face delays as a result of the Middle East conflict. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK