TUMPAT – The Palekbang Bridge and the redevelopment of Kg Laut projects by the East Coast Economic Region Development Council will boost tourism and socio-economic activities in Kelantan, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Economy) Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed.
He said that the construction of the Palekbang-Kota Baru Bridge, costing RM250 million and to be completed by the end of November 2023, will solve the traffic congestion problem at the Sultan Yahya Petra Bridge to and from Kota Baru.
“It will provide an alternative route that will connect Tumpat to Kota Baru. The new bridge will also increase local connectivity and facilitate movement and cross-border trade once completed.
“It will be a catalyst for the development of new areas, especially in Tumpat, and the expansion of Kota Baru business centre,” he said.
The Palekbang Bridge, which is more than one kilometre long, has been in the design and survey stage since September 12 last year, and the appointment of a contractor is expected to be made in the second quarter of this year.
Mustapa said the Kg Laut redevelopment project would be developed as a heritage village with the concept of a “living museum”, aiming not only to attract tourists but also provide opportunities for local small and medium-sized enterprises.
“Phase 1 will cost RM40 million and is expected to be completed in May this year. The main component in this project is the relocation of the Kg Laut Mosque which is about 300 years old, and one of the oldest mosques in the country.
“This is part of the effort to preserve the historical, cultural and architectural values of the mosque and make it a heritage landmark in Kelantan,” he said, adding that the high-impact project showed the federal government's concern for local development in Kelantan. – Bernama, January 3, 2021
