A Low Security Prison?

In our quest for developed nation status, Malaysia is now promoting a new design for a low security prison. All you need is a hammer and you would probably be able to break out in a few hours. With the flimsy construction, a few inmates could knock over some of the supporting pillars and cause the building to collapse.

I watched the TV3 clip last night and the building really looked like ruins. Apparently the contract was awarded in 1997 for RM165m but was terminated in 2002.

It appears that the following would be good areas for the ACA to investigate:

1. How was the tender awarded?

2. Who recommended this contractor for the award?

3. What experience did this contractor have for large projects?

4. How old was the company?

5. Who were the professionals supervising the construction?

6. Why did the company face difficulties?


With respect to the new company doing the project:

1. Why were the defects and additions/omissions not determined before work commenced?

2. What were the contract specs for the open tender?

The latest news in Singapore on the NKF scandal is that the former CEO TT Durai has been arrested on corruption charges within 18 months of the scandal. Maybe the ACA officials can learn a few things from their Singapore counterparts.

photo: New Straits Times