KOTA BHARU: Delay in land acquisition has emerged as a significant hurdle in the timely completion of federally approved projects in Kelantan, according to Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar. Speaking at the KSN Leadership Aspirations Ceremony, Shamsul Azri highlighted the critical role of the state government in ensuring project sites are ready for implementation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Shamsul Azri underscored that land readiness is a pressing issue when projects receive approval. The subsequent land acquisition process often becomes protracted, further complicated by utility concerns such as electricity and piping systems, which extend project timelines.

Shamsul Azri also pointed out that inadequate planning for site access contributes to these delays. Despite these challenges, he noted that effective collaboration between federal and state government entities, including local authorities, can facilitate smoother project execution.

In addition to addressing project delays, Shamsul Azri emphasized the urgency of accelerating public service reforms in Malaysia. These reforms are essential to cope with post-normal challenges defined by Complexity, Chaos, and Contradiction, as the nation strides towards becoming a high-income economy.

He advocated for public sector reforms aimed at nurturing high-performing civil servants with exemplary skills, values, and work ethics. Shamsul Azri stressed that public services should prioritize a people-centric approach, focusing on enhancing efficiency, fostering innovation, and fortifying the governance framework.