Privatization of road maintenance in Malaysia : a case study

Abstract

The belief that privatization of road maintenance can improve road maintenance service, is in question. Interviews with JKR road engineers revealed their dissatisfaction regarding the performance of the concession company in carrying out periodic maintenance works. This study covers the contract specifications, advantages and disadvantages of privatization, the most common type of periodic maintenance work carried out, incurred costs for periodic maintenance works, and the level of satisfaction of JKR as the client. A study on the Privatization Agreement revealed the actual terms of contract. Collection of data for periodic maintenance was analyzed to identie the most common type of maintenance work and its costs. A questionnaire form was submitted to JKR staffs and analyzed to identify their level of satisfaction with the privatization company's performance. It has been found that the company undertakes routine, periodic, and emergency works for the states of Perlis, Pulau Pinang, Kedah, and Perak for a period of 15 years. The major periodic maintenance work carried out by the concession company until 2003 is Regulating and Paving existing roads. However, JKR is not satisfied with the costs for works claims by the company.