KUCHING: The Public Works Department (PWD) is set to embark on a landmark year of infrastructure development with a budget of RM1.31 billion for 2025.
The funding amounts to a significant 63.9 per cent increase from last year’s allocation of RM799.52 million.
PWD Sarawak Director Dr. Cassidy Morris said the department aims to ensure the efficient execution of its projects through enhanced planning, monitoring, and the adoption of innovative technologies.
“The department is reintroducing the PWD 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.
He said this during the PWD Sarawak Assembly 2025 held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Wednesday (Jan 15).
To support these ambitious initiatives, PWD Sarawak will welcome 414 new recruits ithis year.
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, Morris 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 PWD,” he added.
He stated that the department is prioritising workforce training and upskilling, particularly in Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Highway Information Modelling (HIM).
By 2030, PWD aims to implement BIM in 100 per cent of its infrastructure projects.
