Sub-cons under MoE rural school genset scheme cry foul over delayed payment

SIBU: Several sub-contractors in charge of supplying diesel and carrying out maintenance of generator sets for the central region under the Sarawak Rural Schools Genset Scheme are crying foul over the delay in receiving payment from the Education Ministry (MoE), amounting to more than RM1 million.

In a press conference here yesterday, they said they had not received payment even though more than a year has passed since they stopped their works, adding this has put them in great financial hardship.

Sub-contractor Ambrose Gobel, who supplied diesel to schools along the Igan river in Dalat from April to September 2019, said he had engaged mechanics to perform preventative maintenance with regular replacement of lubricants, fuel and oil filters of the gensets.

“I had to use my own money to purchase diesel on cash terms. There are still overdue invoices with me from fuel dealers and riverine transporters.

“I had submitted my claims and repeatedly reminded the main contractor of the genset scheme but after a year and a half, I have yet to receive my payment from MoE,” he said.

Fellow sub-contractor James Berenyang, who conducted genset servicing and repairs for schools in Sibu and Selangau, said the non-receipt of payment from MoE has resulted in him being unable to pay his suppliers.

“My suppliers are pestering me over the outstanding debts and my family is very worried. The Covid-19 pandemic and the Movement Control Order imposed has worsened my financial predicament,” he said.

He said he is even contemplating bringing the matter to the attention of Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as a last resort, so that action can be taken.

Lorry drivers Sylvester Morris and Maslim Zaidan, who both subcontracted the delivery of fuel to schools in Mukah and Selangau, expressed hope that MoE could release what is owed to them soonest.

“Some of the schools we deliver fuel to are located in remote areas and the logistics is challenging especially on rainy days where the terrain is slippery and dangerous for our four-wheeldrive vehicles.

“We risk life and limb to deliver the fuel but the transport fee due to us is pending. This is very sad. Have some empathy for us,” said Sylvester.

Maslim said the pair plans to contact their local assemblyman to air their grievances.

“God-willing, the payment can be expedited before the state election,” he said.

Meanwhile, contractor David Teng said more than 300 rural schools get their daily electricity supply from diesel-powered generator sets.

He said the supply of diesel and spare parts are often constrained by difficult road access and tedious waterway journey, with some taking up to three days for a round trip.

“The livelihood of more than 500 people involved in the whole supply chain, from subcontractors to the fuel suppliers, local sundry store, mechanics, lorry transporters and genset operators, are adversely affected by the delayed payment,” he said.