Penang launches ePerolehan for open bidding of projects

Thursday July 17, 2008 MYT 4:46:18 PM THESTAR
By NIK KHUSAIRI IBRAHIM

GEORGE TOWN: The state government has launched the ePerolehan system to ensure transparency in the tender awarding process.
The system is equipped with an eBidding site for interested contractors to place their bids and eBantahan for the public to voice objections.
"We want to award projects using computer cables, not political cables. Penang is the first to produce such an application to enhance efficiency, save cost, reduce red tape and reduce risks in decision-making," Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said Thursday when launching the system at Dome Komtar here.
"This is in line with our CAT (competence, accountability and transparency) policy," he said, adding that RM360,985 was spent on developing the system which can be accessed at http://ep.penang.gov.my.
Lim said the tender selection process and quotation could be made through the normal channels via the technical evaluation committee, the procurement board and quotation committee.
"Through eBantahan, a two-week grace period is given for the public to raise objections. If there are no objections, we will award the tender.
"eBantahan provides a platform to give out tenders openly, quelling public doubts and negative perceptions as encountered by the previous administration."
Lim called on all contractors to register online, adding transactions could be made online.
Registration fees would be used to cover the cost, management and maintenance of the system, he added.
Lim said last year, the state government awarded projects worth RM99mil encompassing 4,041 indent jobs and 14,353 local orders.
"Up to July 15, the state government had approved projects worth RM27,687,238.10 for 1,554 indent jobs and 5,689 local orders," he said.
He urged other relevant authorities including the Penang Water Supply Corporation, the Penang Development Corporation and the local councils to implement a similar system to promote CAT.