Three leaders list achievements, messages for fence-sitters

Ahead of the six state elections, Malaysiakini has reached out to the heads of governments of Selangor, Negeri Sembilan. Penang, Kedah, Terengganu, and Kelantan to ask them five questions.

The questions are on their achievements, their unfinished business, changes they would make if re-elected, equal funding for assemblypersons, and their message to undecided voters.

Malaysiakini was unable to get a response from the menteris besar of Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, and Kelantan.

The answers as presented in this article have been edited for brevity.

What are five achievements by your state government in the past five years?

Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor (Kedah)

1. Solving Kedah’s water problems: Upgrades to a water treatment plan that was delayed for two years during the Pakatan Harapan administration is now moving smoothly and on schedule.

2. Increasing Malay reserves: From 1933 to Jan 19, 2023, the size of Malay reserve lands that were degazetted is 4,751.4ha, and was replaced with another 5,160ha. This means there is 721,905.6ha of Malay reserve land in Kedah as of January 2023.

3. Highest investment record: From when we took over the state government in May 2020 to the first quarter of this year, total investments have reached RM91.4 billion, the highest in the country.

4. The issue of 7,233 land grants and temporary occupation licence (TOL) resolved: The four-decade wait by Kedahans has ended. We have fulfilled requests for land ownership to Kedahans as per their rights under the law and constitution. This is what I’m personally most happy about. Now the people, especially settlers, get to work their land in peace for future generations.

5. Aid allocation for Kedahans: The state government has increased the rate for funeral aid, developed tertiary education welfare aid, introduced a rice assistance programme, and Anakku Sejahtera programme, which is given to Kedahans regardless of background.

Chow Kon Yeow (Penang)

1. Addressing the Covid-19 pandemic: Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, our state government has effectively managed the crisis.

2. Socio-economic recovery: To ensure a smooth recovery from the pandemic, we established the Penang Socio-Economic Recovery Consultative Council. To address challenges across various sectors, including tourism, the economy, infrastructure, digitization, and employment.

3. Affordable Housing: Our government has successfully constructed 148,351 affordable housing units, which represents 64 percent of our target of 220,000 units by 2030.

4. Infrastructure and connectivity: Our government has invested in infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and alleviating traffic congestion. Projects such as the Bukit Kukus Expressway, Jalan Pintasan Air Itam-Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway, and the upcoming LRT project are crucial steps towards enhancing transportation within the state.

   Additionally, we have prioritised public transport initiatives, including the Pas Mutiara My50 programme, the Congestion Alleviation Transport (CAT) free bus service, Best Komtar, and ferry fare subsidies and improvements.

5. Economic development and investment: We have attracted RM121 billion in manufacturing investments between January 2019 and December 2022. This achievement aligns with our target of creating 150,000 job opportunities by 2030, with a focus on industries like electrical and electronics, machinery and equipment, scientific and medical equipment, as well as technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and STEM programmes.

Ahmad Samsuri Mohktar (Terengganu)

1. Twenty out of 20 of the GE14 manifesto have been implemented and are being carried out by the Terengganu state government, meaning that 100 percent of Terengganu PAS’ manifesto promises are fulfilled.

2. Restructuring GLCs and increasing the income of GLCs. For example, Terengganu Inc’s income increased from RM0.97 billion in 2018, to RM1.57 billion in 2022.

3. The state government’s financial management with transparency and integrity was proven when Terengganu was awarded “unqualified” certificates by the auditor-general for four years in a row.

4. Fostering harmony and introducing and inculcating a culture of mature and peaceful politics in the community.

5. Initiating the recovery and upgrading process for abandoned and sick projects valued at more than RM1 billion which were left behind by the previous administration.

What is your state government still working on that needs more time to be achieved?

Sanusi (Kedah)

There are still eight high-impact projects that are being worked on, namely:

1. Kedah Aerotropolis

2. North Corridor Highway

3. Kedah Science and Technology Park

4. Kedah Rubber City

5. Special Border Economic Zone

6. Five water treatment plants

7. Expansion of Kulim HiTech Park Phase 4A (245 acres) and Phase 5 (450 acres)

8. Planting paddy five times in two years.

Chow (Penang)

The Penang state government is currently focusing on the ongoing implementation of the Penang2030 Vision. While significant progress has been made during the first term, there is still work to be done to ensure the state is in a better and stronger position to achieve its full objectives.

During the initial five years, the government has established administrative structures and laid out a roadmap to guide the state toward its target goals. However, it is crucial to continue consolidating these structures and providing further support to the roadmap in the next five years.

This also means there must be continuity, in the sense that the next leader should be able to give the state the necessary impetus to fulfil the remaining tasks and bring the vision to its fruition.

By ensuring a smooth transition and building upon the foundation laid, the state government can work towards creating a more vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future for Penang as envisioned in Penang2030.

Samsuri (Terengganu)

Physical development in the state that is more well-planned. In this term, we gave a lot of focus on completing projects by the previous administration, including recovering and treating abandoned projects.

In the next term, before the completion of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), development planning which was initiated by the ECRL construction needs to be laid out so that it can be utilised to the maximum extent by the state government.

Management of economic sources is also an area of focus for the state government to reduce the state’s revenue dependence on oil and gas. To date, according to the Auditor-General’s Report, in 2018-2021 the average rate of dependence (on oil and gas) reduced to 68.7 percent compared to 72.7 percent in 2014-2017.

What would you do differently if your coalition is re-elected?

Sanusi (Kedah)

Still following the original plan.

Chow (Penang)

If entrusted with the mandate to govern Penang for the next five years, we would focus on building upon our achievements and address any shortcomings based on the feedback received from the public. 

This entails the continuation of our efforts and priorities in the following key areas:

1. Economic generation and job creation: We would focus on fostering growth and job opportunities in the electrical and electronic manufacturing sector, integrated circuit design, medical technology, digital district, and the new economy.

2. Penang Strategy for Economic Ecosystem Development (Penang Seed): By adhering to this framework, we expect to maintain a consistent growth trajectory of 3.5 percent annually from 2023 to 2028.

   In fact, related guidelines anticipate annual growth of 5.8 percent by attracting more than RM10 billion in approved manufacturing investment, while the job market is expected to grow by 1.4 percent during the same period.

3. Implementation of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP): We would prioritise the execution of the PTMP, with particular emphasis on the Bayan Lepas LRT project and the realisation of the “Silicon Island”; project, Penang South Island (PSI).

4. Traffic flow Improvement and public transport mobility solutions: These initiatives aim to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance the flow of vehicles, and provide efficient public transport solutions for the convenience of our citizens.

   We would also actively seek the federal government’s support and allocation for the construction of an elevated highway or Juru - Sungai Dua Expressway.

5. Climate change mitigation: Addressing climate change is a priority and we would focus on implementing flood mitigation projects, developing low-carbon cities, and promoting the adoption of electric vehicle (EV) facilities.

6. Water Contingency Plan 2030: We would work diligently to implement the plan to ensure that Penang does not face recurring water crises. This plan will involve comprehensive strategies to manage water resources effectively, secure alternative water sources, and promote water conservation measures.

7. Community empowerment and development: Through various initiatives, programmes, and support systems, we aim to uplift youth, women, and the elderly, enhance their wellbeing, and foster a thriving and inclusive society. 

Samsuri (Terengganu)

Nothing different besides stepping up efforts to solve issues on development and welfare for the people.

Will you give or continue to give equal funding to the opposition?

Sanusi (Kedah)

Yes.

Chow (Penang)

Ensuring fairness and giving all voices a platform to be heard is of utmost importance in our democratic society. The allocation of funding to political parties is a critical aspect of supporting their endeavours. 

While transparency and fairness are key, we will carefully consider the decision to provide equal funding to the opposition

Samsuri (Terengganu)

In Terengganu, we have given allocations to the opposition since 2019.

God willing, as representatives elected by the people, they should get allocations from the state government just as how the state government receives allocations from the federal government even though we are of different parties.

If you could say one thing to fence-sitters, what would it be?

Sanusi (Kedah)

Go out and fulfil your responsibilities as voters and vote for the party that is clean and stable to form a better future for the country.

Chow (Penang)

You hold the power to shape the future of Penang. Your vote has the power to influence the trajectory of our state and determine the kind of future we want for ourselves and generations to come.

I implore you to exercise your fundamental right to vote and make a choice that aligns with your values and aspirations. Consider the track records and visions of the candidates and parties vying for your support. Look closely at their accomplishments, promises fulfilled, and dedication to the betterment of Penang.

Rest assured that our state government remains unwavering in our commitment to the advancement of Penang and the well-being of its people. We have consistently demonstrated our ability to deliver on our promises and achieve significant milestones. 

Our focus has been on forging a sustainable and prosperous future, ensuring that each resident can thrive and prosper.

Samsuri (Terengganu)

In this critical phase, voters must be wary of the social media propaganda game and also always refer to true sources. 

Not forgetting that before making choices and decisions, evaluate based on policies, approaches, track records, and efforts given, and not emotions or simply following others.

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Chow’s full unedited response to the five questions can be read here. - Mkini