Fair Share for Sarawak: RM720 Million School Security Contracts Under Review
KUCHING, Dec 27 – Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang has called for the RM720 million government school security service tenders in Sarawak to be reevaluated and awarded exclusively to local contractors.
Lo voiced strong dissatisfaction with the current allocation, describing it as “grossly unfair.” According to him, Sarawakian contractors were awarded only 20 out of 243 zones, equating to 8.23 per cent or RM63,092,736.72 of the total RM720,385,377.23 contract value.
“The disparity is deeply concerning. Contractors from outside Sarawak dominate the tenders, leaving our local contractors with limited opportunities,” Lo stated.
He highlighted that West Malaysia has around 200 security service contractors, while Sarawak has only 12. Despite the numbers, he emphasized the capability of Sarawakian contractors to manage these contracts without external help.
Lo proposed that, if needed, local contractors could subcontract services to West Malaysian companies but stressed that Sarawak’s contractors are fully competent to handle the job independently.
To address the issue, Lo suggested that Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen take the matter to Parliament instead of relying on letters. Chong had written to Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Second Finance Minister Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Aziz, and Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, requesting a review of the tender distribution.
“Raising this issue in Parliament ensures transparency and accountability. It’s the best way to shed light on this disparity and find equitable solutions,” Lo explained.
The assemblyman’s comments reflect growing concerns among Sarawakians about the fairness of contract awards and the importance of prioritizing local businesses to stimulate Sarawak’s economy.