IPOH – The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has approved RM20 million in funding for the Ipoh City Council (MBI) to resurface approximately 400 residential roads across the city, marking one of the most extensive neighbourhood infrastructure upgrades in recent years.
Minister Nga Kor Ming said the allocation reflects the federal government’s commitment to improving essential public facilities and addressing frequent public complaints regarding deteriorating residential roads that affect safety, daily mobility and quality of life.
Speaking after his working visit to Pasar Canning, Nga said the resurfacing exercise will be implemented comprehensively rather than relying on small-scale patchwork repairs.
“We are not talking about temporary patching. We want full resurfacing to ensure roads are durable, safe and capable of serving residents effectively,” he said.
The project is expected to commence soon and be completed before next year’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations. KPKT estimates that each residential road will require approximately RM50,000 for proper resurfacing, depending on complexity and road condition.
Nga stressed that accountability and proper procurement processes will be key elements of the project. Contractors will be appointed only after detailed cost-benefit assessments to ensure competitive pricing, quality workmanship and strong value for public investment.
“When public funds are channelled, we must guarantee that the results reflect quality. Residents deserve infrastructure improvements they can truly appreciate and rely on,” he said.
The initiative is aligned with KPKT’s broader mission to uplift community facilities nationwide, following other successful programmes including the expansion of MADANI Recreational Parks, which have now exceeded 200 locations.
For Ipoh residents, particularly those living in older housing areas, the announcement is expected to bring relief after years of dealing with potholes, cracked road surfaces and uneven pavements — issues that pose safety risks to motorists, motorcyclists, pedestrians and children.
Urban planners also view the project as significant, as well-maintained residential roads are linked not only to safety but to improved neighbourhood image, increased property value and stronger community satisfaction.
With implementation expected soon, attention will now turn to execution quality and timely completion — factors KPKT has pledged to monitor closely to ensure residents reap real, lasting benefits from the RM20 million investment.