KUALA LUMPUR: Darul Ridzuan Utility Corridor (KUDR) and Ipoh City Council (MBI) have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at developing a more sustainable and efficient utility infrastructure and database system.
As part of the MoU, MBI mandates KUDR to coordinate all permit applications for utility infrastructure installations within its road reserves through the KUDR Online System (KUDRAT) starting on July 1, 2024.
The signing ceremony was attended by Datuk Seri Ir. Mohamad Nizar bin Jamaluddin, chairman of the Perak Infrastructure, Energy, Water, and Public Transport Committee.
"This initiative is a new effort by the Perak state government to realising the Perak Sejahtera 2030 agenda.
"It also reflects the state government's awareness of the need for technological advancement to address challenges faced by all stakeholders in the utility industry, including government agencies," he said in a statement.
The Perak state government aims for a more planned, controlled, and systematic utility infrastructure across the state.
The steps taken by MBI are expected to be followed by all local authorities (PBT) across Perak.
"This strategic collaboration between MBI and KUDR will lead to the well-being of Ipoh and Kinta residents, allowing them to enjoy a more comfortable life, better government facilities, and enhanced safety through services provided by KUDR.
"The state government is also confident that this innovative and inclusive approach will lead to public well-being and ensure the continuity of public facilities and service delivery while creating new job and business opportunities," he added.
Ipoh mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin said the online system and digitisation of infrastructure data collection can streamline applications from utility providers as a reference for the Approving Authority (PBM) and can serve as a reference for technical departments and agencies.
"Starting July 1, 2024, all applications involving road excavation must be made through the KUDR agency.
"Meanwhile, from June 18, 2024, MBI will no longer accept permit and excavation applications; all applications must be made through the KUDRAT application.
"The two-week period will serve as a re-adjustment period for MBI and KUDR (calming period)," he added.
KUDR chief executive officer Adham Nasri Mohamad said that applications made through the KUDRAT system will contribute to the collection of applicant and utility data in Perak.
"The system meets digitalisation aspects for all utility infrastructure installation applications. This system not only functions to receive applications online but also includes a system to record assets and maintenance reminders digitally for roads under MBI's jurisdiction.
"This value proposition allows all applications to be supplied with an Underground Detection Mapping (UDM), Traffic Management Plan (TMP), and As Built Plan to ensure that utility data collection is always accurate, complete, consistent, and up-to-date. This comprehensive data can further enhance the management of roads under MBI's purview," he added.