Sultan notes Perak recorded RM52.3m surplus in 2019

The Perak government recorded a surplus of RM52.3 million in 2019, according to Perak ruler Sultan Nazrin Shah.

In his royal address at the Perak legislative assembly today, Sultan Nazrin said the state government revenue was RM1.15 billion, while expenditure was RM1.1 billion.

The ruler noted that revenue was 106 percent above target. It is believed that this is the first time the state had recorded a surplus since 2016.

"Going forward, my government will continue to adopt cost-saving measures and improve revenue collection to ensure it has adequate funds to finance various development projects," said Sultan Nazrin.

The ruler said that for 2020, the state's RM1.2 billion budget would be re-assessed on a needs-based basis to converge on projects which have a higher impact and multiplier effect.

On the economy, the ruler noted that in 2019, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) approved investments totalling RM10.2 billion for Perak, recording the highest investment approvals in the last decade.

The ruler urged both the federal and state governments to improve telecommunications infrastructure through the National Fiberisation and Connectivity Plan (NFCP).

"This is a step in the right direction. The enhancement in broadband quality, coverage and affordability, will enable a wider cross section of citizens to benefit.

"The state government also has to ensure it progresses swiftly from conventional work processes to a more integrated and effective digital platform," said Sultan Nazrin.

Among other goals, the NFCP aims to ensure between 500Mbps and 1000Mbps internet speed availability for all state capitals by 2023.

The plan also aims to provide internet access to 98 percent of populated areas with an average speed of 30Mbps by 2023. - Mkini