KUALA LUMPUR: Five out of the 12 River of Life projects still in the pre-implementation phase have been cancelled after being deemed less significant in achieving the project's objectives.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said this was following an assessment conducted by the Federal Territories Department.
"The department has reviewed the 12 River of Life projects still in the pre-implementation phase to ensure that only significant projects are continued.
"As a result, five projects have been cancelled due to their insignificance in achieving the objectives of the River of Life implementation, while the remaining seven projects will continue to ensure the original objectives of river beautification and cleaning are achieved," she said in a written reply published on the parliament website.
This was in response to a question from Ahmad Tarmizi Sulaiman (PN-SIK) regarding follow-up actions on the 12 River of Life projects still in the pre-implementation phase, as reported in the Auditor-General's Report.
The River of Life project is one of the Entry Point Projects (EPPs) under the National Key Economic Area (NKEA) for the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley, aimed at transforming the Gombak and Klang rivers into dynamic, livable waterfront icons with high economic value.
The River of Life consists of three main components: river cleaning, river beautification, and land development.
Dr Zaliha further explained that procurement processes for the remaining seven projects will be managed by the relevant agencies to ensure smooth implementation, while fully considering the risks associated with the projects.
"The department, along with the implementing agencies, remains committed to ensuring that the execution of the River of Life projects meets the original objectives set," she added.
"Collaboration from all parties is crucial to balance the sustainability of cleanliness and beauty around the Gombak and Klang rivers to fulfil the aspirations of the Rivers of Life," she said.