Minister for Transport Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin has addressed and refuted claims made by Violet Yong regarding the allocation of a RM122,441,222 contract by Sarawak Metro for the production of 55 hydrogen fuel cell feeder buses. Lee clarified that the contract awarded included various components such as Chassis, Bus System, Bus Body, maintenance services, and spare parts, with a significant portion of the amount allocated for the buses themselves. Additionally, Lee emphasized that the contract was awarded to a joint venture company comprising SKS Coachbuilders Sdn Bhd and Sun Credit Sdn Bhd, with SKS Coachbuilders as the lead partner. In response to allegations of misconduct in the tender evaluation process, Lee explained that the profit requirements for bidders were waived due to the financial challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision was made to ensure project continuity and avoid further delays. The evaluation committee ultimately recommended awarding the contract to the JV company as they presented the most competitive commercial proposal amongst all bidders. Notably, SKS Coachbuilders Sdn Bhd demonstrated a stable financial standing with adequate credit facilities, further supporting the decision to award them the contract. The involvement of a Sarawak local partner was clarified to not be a mandatory requirement for the tender exercise, contrary to claims made. Lee's detailed explanation aimed to address concerns and reinforce the transparency and legitimacy of the contract award process.