Alor setar: The development of Langkawi Island should be shaped according to its own identity and character, without imitating or comparing itself to other tourist destinations such as Phuket, Thailand, or Bali, Indonesia, the Sultan of Kedah, Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah, said. His Royal Highness emphasized the significance of developing Langkawi as a unique entity that aligns with its inherent qualities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, His Royal Highness highlighted Langkawi Island as a strategic asset to Kedah and the nation, serving as a premier tourist destination and a key driver of the state's economic growth. He stressed that Langkawi's true strength lies in its natural treasures and unique heritage, emphasizing the importance of preserving and developing these valuable assets sustainably.

Sultan Sallehuddin made these remarks at the investiture ceremony of state, honours and medals, held in conjunction with His Royal Highness' 84th birthday at Istana Anak Bukit. The Sultan of Kedah also stressed that any attempts to exploit the situation by taking actions or making statements that could tarnish Langkawi Island's image and reputation would not be tolerated.

Additionally, the Sultan expressed serious concern over delays in the implementation of several strategic infrastructure projects, including the Sungai Kedah/Anak Bukit flood mitigation plan (RTB), which has remained incomplete for a considerable period. He noted that these delays had resulted in recurring floods affecting residents in the impacted areas and called for immediate action to alleviate the problem.

Also present at the ceremony were the Sultanah of Kedah, Sultanah Maliha Tengku Ariff; Raja Muda of Kedah Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah Sultan Sallehuddin; Raja Puan Muda of Kedah Che Puan Muda Zaheeda Mohamad Ariff; Tunku Mahkota of Kedah Tunku Shazuddin Ariff Sultan Sallehuddin, and Tunku Puan Mahkota of Kedah Che Puan Nur Julie Ariff.