Leaders, residents elated

LANGKAWI: Langkawi leaders and residents are elated at Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s RM1.3 billion allocation for five projects here.

Langkawi member of parliament Datuk Nawawi Ahmad said the RM600 million allocation to build an off-river reservoir facility in Padang Matsirat was a blessing for the people on the island.

He said the island would face a major clean water supply crisis by next year if the project did not take off soon.

He said the existing system could no longer accommodate the demand for clean water supply in the next two years.

“The allocation is the best gift from the prime minister and the Barisan Nasional government as it will accommodate future demand until 2040.”

He thanked Najib for approving RM500 million to upgrade Langkawi Hospital as the people here had been waiting for years to enjoy better health services.

“I did not expect Najib to make the announcement today (yesterday). It was a pleasant surprise for all of us in Langkawi.”

Ayer Hangat assemblyman Datuk Mohd Rawi Abdul Hamid said: “I am grateful for the prime minister ’s announcements for Langkawi.

“The approval of RM500 million for the Langkawi Hospital proved that Najib takes note of people’s wishes.

“I am confident that the prime minister will announce more great news for us in the next two months.”

Kuah assemblyman Nor Saidi Nanyan said the allocation proved Najib’s honesty in delivering his promises to bring in more development for the betterment of Langkawi folk.

“As Kuah assemblyman, I wish to extend our gratitude for the projects, in particular the water reservoir facility, which will address the increasing demand for water during school holidays.”

Fisherman Che Halim Osman, 67, said he was grateful for the projects and the additional RM3.7 million to build a fishermen jetty in Kuala Teriang and extension to the wave-breaker in Chenang.

“As a fisherman and a resident of Langkawi, I am grateful that the prime minister listens to the heart and pulse of the people.”