BENTONG, 5 October 2026 (The Capital Post) – The upgraded Pusat Pemulihan Penagihan Narkotik (PUSPEN) Karak in Bentong has been officially handed over following the completion of construction, demolition and upgrading works valued at RM72.115 million.
Works Minister Dato’ Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi and Home Minister Senator Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail attended the project handover ceremony in Bentong today.
The upgraded rehabilitation centre has a capacity of up to 500 residents and features improved infrastructure aimed at providing a more modern, safe and comfortable environment for treatment and rehabilitation programmes.
The project had an original contract value of RM68.88 million, while the current contract value stands at RM72.115 million.
Construction began on 6 August 2021 and was initially scheduled for completion on 1 August 2024. However, the project experienced delays due to internal issues involving main contractor TAIACE Engineering Sdn. Bhd.
Following continued monitoring and follow-up action by the senior management of the Ministry of Works (KKR) and the Public Works Department (JKR) Malaysia, the project was fully completed on 27 July 2026, including within the period subject to delay penalties.
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KKR said the completed project would provide a more conducive environment for rehabilitation while supporting efforts to help residents return to productive lives.
The ministry added that JKR Malaysia would continue to ensure public infrastructure projects, particularly treatment and rehabilitation facilities, meet required standards for quality, safety, specifications and implementation timelines.
Also present were the Pahang state executive councillor for works, the Bentong Member of Parliament and senior officials from the Home Ministry, National Anti-Drugs Agency, KKR and JKR Malaysia.
According to a post on the official Facebook page of Kementerian Kerja Raya Malaysia, the completion of PUSPEN Karak reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen the delivery of quality public facilities and improve rehabilitation services – The Capital Post
