PUTRAJAYA: The relevant agencies have been told to intervene immediately and control the rising price of construction materials, says the Prime Minister.

       Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the increase was affecting development projects.

       He said the government had given the matter serious attention as it wants fast execution of all planned projects.

       "Agencies must act to control the increase in cost of construction materials," he said in a Facebook post after chairing the National Development Action Council meeting on Tuesday (May 31).

       At the meeting, the Prime Minister said the ministries concerned must ensure that development projects take off.

       "These projects are crucial as the multiplier effect will move the economy, including at grassroots level," he added.

       Under Budget 2022, the government had allocated RM40.5bil for basic development expenditure.