Kuala lumpur: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Parliament today is expected to redesign the nation’s economic and development landscape towards a more inclusive, sustainable, and responsible future. In PENANG: Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the plan’s focus on digitalisation, advanced technology, and the development of a values-based MADANI social system aligned with the state’s vision under Penang 2030, which was introduced in 2018.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chow highlighted Penang’s appreciation for the high-value projects listed in the plan, which promise strong investment returns and further solidify the state’s role as a significant contributor to national investment. He mentioned the importance of the Mutiara Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) and upgrades to the PLUS Highway from Juru to Sungai Dua, which aim to enhance connectivity and infrastructure. Chow also noted the proposed expansion of the Penang International Airport (PIA) as a crucial development to enhance user experience and boost inter-regional connectivity.
In SELANGOR: Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari expressed his support for 13MP, describing it as a comprehensive initiative that complements state projects and uplifts communities. He particularly noted the development of Carey Port in Kuala Langat as a key project to alleviate congestion at Port Klang, indicating the state’s eagerness to collaborate with the Federal Government. Amirudin also commended the addition of 300 Demand-Responsive Transit (DRT) vans, 1,200 buses, and 217 train sets aimed at improving public transport access, especially in the Klang Valley. He further acknowledged the recognition of waste-to-energy (WTE) technology and the commitment to creating 1.2 million new jobs in manufacturing and the digital economy.
In PAHANG: Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail praised the establishment of the National Food Production Hub, emphasizing its importance for the East Coast region. He noted the state’s ongoing efforts to develop a Halal Hub and expressed gratitude for federal support in ensuring its success.
In NEGERI SEMBILAN: Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun welcomed the government’s dedication to building and upgrading public hospitals, highlighting the Tuanku Jaafar Hospital 2 project as a testament to its commitment to public well-being. He also acknowledged the Sungai Gemencheh Flood Mitigation Project in Tampin as a significant initiative to reduce flood risks.
In PERAK: State Tourism, Industry, Investment, and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee discussed the development of the third regasification terminal in Lumut, expected to enhance national energy security and attract investments in clean and sustainable energy sectors. He also mentioned the establishment of Lumut Maritime Industrial City (LuMIC) and the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park (KIGIP) as pivotal for expanding industrial development in coastal areas.
Meanwhile, in SABAH: Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) president Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup expressed optimism about the special focus on Sabah in the 13MP. He highlighted the development of the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park and strategic infrastructure projects like the Pan Borneo Highway as key opportunities to unlock economic potential in the state. Kurup emphasized the role of TVET programmes and financing schemes in engaging rural youth and creating skilled agropreneurs, in line with the plan’s job creation goals.