JRTB Gets RM55M for Repairs, Staged Rollout Planned

The Public Works Department (JKR) is finalising plans to repair stretches of the East-West Highway (JRTB), especially between Gerik and Jeli, as it completes a detailed pavement condition assessment (PCA).

Director-General Datuk Roslan Ismail said the PCA helps identify damaged road sections and determine the most suitable maintenance methods. The goal is to ensure repair funds are used efficiently.

“For the Gerik–Jeli stretch of JRTB, we started the PCA on March 13 using advanced tools such as the Multi Laser Profiler and Falling Weight Deflectometer,” he said.

The assessment is now in its final stage. Based on its findings, JKR will proceed with repairs using the existing RM55 million allocation. If more is needed, additional funding will be requested.

Roslan however explained that repairing the entire 215 KM route at once is not feasible due to the high cost and the need to balance other infrastructure priorities.

He welcomed support from the Perak Menteri Besar and noted that the Works Ministry has already submitted a request for phased improvements.

“The country’s budget system follows a ‘whole of nation’ approach. Funds are distributed based on yearly national priorities,” he said.

The JRTB, which links Gerik in Perak to Jeli in Kelantan, is a key federal road often affected by bad weather and heavy traffic.

Roslan said any upcoming works would be carefully planned to avoid clashing with other ongoing projects in order to make every ringgit spent count making upgrades that will make a real difference.

Source: MalayMail