KUCHING – The establishment of development agencies according to specific areas like the one implemented in Sarawak can be emulated by other states, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Zahid, who is also rural development minister, said the establishment of development agencies by area would make efforts more focused with the involvement of local leaders who better understand the needs of their area.
“In my opinion, this is a game-changing move that other states should also learn from so that there is a balance of development between residents living in rural and urban areas,” he said after attending the ministry’s coordination meeting and executive committees of the state’s rural areas here, today.
Previously, the Sarawak state government had established several development agencies including the Ulu Rajang Development Agency, the Highland Development Agency, and the Northern Region Development Agency to drive and accelerate the economic development of the area.
Meanwhile, when asked about Budget 2024, Zahid said the ministry had submitted several proposals and their requests to the Economy Ministry, especially for the development of rural areas.
Budget 2024 is expected to be tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also finance minister, on October 13. – Bernama, October 11, 2023
