‘Wider gap’ in Kelantan’s development without change – Rafizi

 

There is a need for PKR to lead a change in Kelantan's state administration to prevent a widening gap between the PAS-led state and others in various aspects, according to PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli.

Rafizi (above) said there should be no argument for the fact that a state's achievements mirror the capability of its administration.

"I don't think there is a need for debate, that achievements of a state in areas of work opportunities, socio-economics, infrastructure, those are reflections of an efficient administration.

"The efficiency does not solely rely on waiting for federal allocations. It also depends on the state administration's vision to be creative in ensuring there would be a promotion of certain economic activities," he said.

The economy minister said this at a press conference after launching Kelantan PKR's election convention in Kota Baru today.

He was responding to a question about whether PAS’ decades of rule in Kelantan had contributed to a perceived development gap between the state and others.

Rafizi in his earlier speech had, among others, touched on Kelantan's high poverty rate.

Further, Rafizi also said he believed that voters are aware of the development gap but yet continue to vote for PAS to administer Kelantan.

"By right, if there are other leaders or state government were given the responsibility (to lead), there is potential for even higher achievements. I think that is an open secret.

"What we must address now is why the people of Kelantan still vote for PAS despite (other) options.

"At PKR's level, we need to do something about this situation. Matters within our control so that it does not repeat.

"If this continues, then the development gap between Kelantan and other states will widen. Other states will advance but Kelantan remains left behind," he said.

Rafizi added that among the reasons change has not happened in Kelantan since the last few elections were due to a lack of confidence among voters in the capability of other parties, particularly PKR and Pakatan Harapan. - Mkini