Less-developed states to be given priority

KUALA LUMPUR: Priority in the distribution of the government's development allocation will be given to less-developed states, said Economic Affairs Deputy Minister, Dr Mohd Radzi Md Jidin, in Parliament yesterday.

He said this would reduce the economic and development imbalance, as well as improve access to basic needs.

It is also a step towards allaround development and to ensure people reap the socioeconomic benefits.

"To strengthen regional economic development and streamline state development planning, several initiatives will be implemented such as a framework for integrated regional development and an emphasis on cluster activities, road network and water supply," he said.

Mohd Radzi was responding to a question from Datuk Che Abdullah Mat Nawi (PAS-Tumpat) who wanted to know the measures being taken by the government to address the economic inequality between states on the west coast and those like Kelantan and Terengganu.

Mohd Radzi said that under the 11th Malaysia Plan (RMK11), Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu have received RM13.6 billion, while under the Rural Water Supply Programme 20162017, Kelantan received RM75 million, Pahang RM44.8 million and Terengganu RM14.1 million.

This year, he added, Kelantan was allocated RM32 million and Terengganu, RM4.5 million.

Mohd Radzi said that in order to expand access to basic services, several conveniences and amenities will be improved, including education, health and housing,

"As an example, for health, 83 projects at a cost of RM3 billion, are being carried out under RMK11 including the construction of Hospital Kuala Krai in Kelantan, Hospital Dungun in Terengganu and Hospital Bera, in Pahang," Mohd Radzi said. - Bernama