KUALA LUMPUR: The Ipoh-Padang Besar electrified double-tracking project was awarded to MMC-Gamuda JV through direct negotiation, said Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lajim Ukin.

"We take into consideration the expertise of the companies bidding for the project," he said when responding to a question from Salahuddin Ayub (PAS-Kubang Kerian) during question time at the Dewan Rakyat here Monday (3 Nov).

Lajim said it was better for the project to be awarded through direct negotiation than open tender as MMC-Gamuda JV had the expertise to carry out the RM12.485 billion project and meet the standards set by the government.

He said work on the project, which would be completed in five years' time, started on 8 Jan.

The project is carried out on a design and build basis while the scope of the contract entails planning, designing, installation, testing, commissioning of the subsystems communications and maintenance. (Bernama)