The Yang diPertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas said the state needs better public transport systems to resolve growing traffic congestion and needs the cooperation of the federal government.

The governor of Penang today called on Putrajaya to approve the state’s application for tram and Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems at his opening speech at the state legislative assembly sitting today.

The Yang diPertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas said the state needs better public transport systems to resolve growing traffic congestion and needs the cooperation of the federal government.

“Putrajaya needs to show a clear commitment to assist the state in implementing these systems by either funding these systems or allowing the state to run these systems on its own,” he said.

The state government had demanded that the federal government fulfil its promises to implement effective public transportation systems, namely the promised LRT.

Alternatively, the state has applied to the federal government for licences to run the tram, LRT or other types of public transportation systems together with the private sector.

Abdul Rahman said the state is yet to get any response to its applications.

The proposal to implement tram and LRT systems in the state is in line with Penang’s Master Transportation Plan.

Despite the lack of approvals from the federal government, Penang has called for proposals to conduct feasibility studies for a tram system.

On the tourism front, Abdul Rahman said the state government is focusing on Seberang Perai as a tourist destination.

“This is because the state has identified 36 locations as tourist spots which include historical buildings, eco-tourism packages and recreational areas,” he said.

He commended the state government’s ability to maintain Penang’s standing as the top draw for foreign direct investment.

Penang received RM19.7 billion in FDIs between 2010 and August 2013, roughly 20 per cent of the country’s total FDIs.

He also commended the Penang Water Supply Corporation for not implementing any water rationing despite the recent drought and supported its proposal to increase water tariff to encourage consumers to save water.

Abdul Rahman also said the state had allocated a RM11.2 million development fund for the maintenance and management of mosques in the state.

However, he is concerned over the delay in the construction of the RM70 million Sharia High Court building that started in 2011 and is yet to be completed.

“I hope the agencies involved in the project will ensure the project is completed soon,” he said.

Source: TheMalayMailOnline.com