KL streamlines choice of deal

KL streamlines choice of deal

KUALA LUMPUR (AFP): Malaysia would streamline the selection process for a four billion ringgit (US$1.6 billion) warship project that has attracted 36 foreign bidders, Defense Minister Najib Tun Razak said yesterday.

"We (the defense ministry) are going to the cabinet to streamline the (selection) process, which is complex and enormous," Najib told reporters.

The government would evaluate in an "expeditious manner" the bids by companies from, among other countries, Australia, Britain, Denmark, France, Germany, New Zealand and Sweden, he said.

Officials said a decision would be made by the end of the year.

The 36 foreign shipbuilders were bidding for the Royal Malaysian Navy's offshore patrol vessel contract, which involves the construction of 27 patrol boats over 20 years, officials said.