2 buildings in Washington DC left vacant after RM14 million facelift, says auditor

The Malaysian government bought two buildings in Washington DC in 1979 and 1984, which have been left vacant despite a RM14.17 million renovation. – AFP pic, November 23, 2015.

Two buildings supposed to house Malaysian representatives to the United States have been left vacant despite being renovated for RM14.17 million, said the auditor-general’s report today.

The buildings, Annex 1 and 2, bought in 1979 and 1984 for RM1.45 million and RM1.05 million respectively, in Washington DC, but they have been vacant since 2002, the report said.

Work to repair and renovate them began in 2010 and was completed in 2012 for RM14.17 million.

“However, the buildings have not been occupied and are still empty,” said the report, which is the third and final for this year.

The report also said the warranty period for the buildings had expired on June 29, 2013.

“In the audit’s opinion, the Annex 1 and 2 buildings, which have been renovated but are still not used, are a waste.

“The Malaysian government still has to pay the cost of utilities and services to maintain and clean the buildings.

“The warranty on defects has also expired and if there are damages found, before or after the building is occupied, those cannot be claimed from the contractor,” the report said.

- TMI