21-04-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Speed up Thai border wall project, says Kelantan sultan
KOTA BARU: Sultan of Kelantan Sultan Muhammad V today urged swift approval of a proposed wall and buffer zone along the Malaysian-Thai border in Sungai Golok.
"I take the security issue along the Malaysian-Thai border seriously and hope the wall and buffer zone project can be implemented soon."
He said this at the opening ceremony of the state legislative assembly.
Sultan Muhammad V expressed appreciation for the strong federal-state relationship.
He highlighted collaboration in infrastructure, land use, agriculture, and biodiversity conservation in Kelantan.
"I urge that the Kelantan and Golok Rivers Integrated River Basin Projects be expedited to address flood issues in the state.
"Priority should be given to the construction of the Lebir Dam, which is needed to resolve flood problems in Kelantan," he said.
The ruler said Kelantan still lags in attracting foreign investment compared with west coast states that have ports and better trade facilities.
"Infrastructure development must be accelerated, along with competitive tax incentives to draw more investors."
Sultan Muhammad V said he had been informed that the state government had submitted a list of applications for the First Rolling Plan under the 13th Malaysia Plan.
"I hope the planned focus will lead to more inclusive and sustainable development.
"This can drive economic growth and boost the state's competitiveness.
"Key focus areas should include manufacturing to attract investment, better water and road infrastructure, and stronger emphasis on agriculture and tourism."
The ruler expressed hope that an agricultural produce collection centre in Lojing could be developed immediately to transform the sub-district into an agricultural hub.
"I urge departments, agencies and government-linked companies involved in the agriculture sector to remain focused on their functions and to intensify efforts to ensure food security for the state and the nation,"
He urged the state to prioritise new townships in every district as industrial growth catalysts.
"These new townships should adopt the smart city concept.
"In the era of artificial intelligence (AI), technical and digital skills are becoming increasingly important.
"With the right skills, young people can be more competitive and contribute to human capital development.
"Therefore, I urge the state government to explore and provide alternative education platforms, particularly in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), to meet the needs of industries."
