Works Ministry eyeing highest development allocation in Budget 2027 — Ahmad Maslan - theedgemalaysia.com

KUALA LUMPUR, 10 AUGUST 2026 —

The Malaysian government's Works Ministry is seeking the highest development allocation in the upcoming Budget 2027, according to Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan. The ministry aims to secure a significant budget to facilitate more development and infrastructure maintenance projects across the country. Ahmad Maslan stated that the ministry is currently gathering input from its agencies, including the Malaysian Highway Authority, Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia, and Public Works Department, in preparation for the budget.

The TuJu application, launched by the Malaysian Highway Authority, provides users with real-time traffic information, including CCTV feeds, toll rates, and emergency assistance. The app is linked to the LLM Traffic Control Centre, which monitors hundreds of CCTV cameras across Malaysia's 34 highways. Ahmad Maslan encouraged highway users to utilize the TuJu app to make better travel decisions, highlighting the importance of staying informed about road conditions. The implementation of the multi-lane free flow project, which enables toll collection without vehicles stopping at toll plazas, is also underway. The project is currently at the proof-of-concept stage and will be implemented through business-to-business arrangements between concessionaires without government funding.

The Works Ministry's efforts to secure a significant development allocation in Budget 2027 are likely to have a positive impact on the Malaysian market. The construction and infrastructure sectors are expected to benefit from increased funding, which could lead to new project opportunities and job creation. The development of smart highways and the implementation of innovative solutions, such as the TuJu app, are also expected to enhance the overall efficiency and safety of Malaysia's transportation network. Details on the specific projects and initiatives that will be funded through the allocation are not yet available, but the ministry's focus on infrastructure development and maintenance is likely to have a positive impact on the economy.

The Malaysian construction and infrastructure sectors are comprised of various companies, including concessionaires operating the country's highways. PLUS Malaysia Berhad, one of the largest concessionaires, operates over 1,000 kilometers of highways. The implementation of the multi-lane free flow project is expected to be carried out by concessionaires, including PLUS, through partnerships with external companies. The use of technology, such as the TuJu app, is also expected to play a key role in enhancing the efficiency and safety of Malaysia's transportation network. Companies involved in the development and implementation of these solutions, such as those providing digital technology and artificial intelligence services, may also benefit from the increased funding.

The outlook for the Works Ministry's development allocation in Budget 2027 is positive, with the ministry hoping to secure a significant increase in funding. The implementation of innovative solutions, such as the TuJu app, and the development of smart highways are expected to enhance the overall efficiency and safety of Malaysia's transportation network. The construction and infrastructure sectors are likely to benefit from increased funding, leading to new project opportunities and job creation. The ministry's meeting with the Finance Minister II on August 28 is expected to provide further clarity on the allocation, with details on specific projects and initiatives to be announced in due course. As the Malaysian government continues to prioritize infrastructure development, the Works Ministry's efforts to secure a significant development allocation in Budget 2027 are likely to have a positive impact on the economy.