2009/04/14
KUALA TERENGGANU: Continue spending where it matters to help keep the economy going but avoid being wasteful, the Regent advised the state government yesterday.
Tengku Baderulzaman, who is the president of the Regency Advisory Council, said continued government spending would help stimulate the economy.
It was important to carry on spending on local projects and services to help withstand the current economic slowdown, he said.
However, Tengku Baderul-zaman said such projects and economic activities must bring about direct and immediate benefits to the people.
He said the state government must remind itself that global oil prices had dipped below US$45 (RM161) per barrel, and this would have a direct impact on the state's oil royalty receipts.
"This is why the state has to plan its spending carefully. Cut down on utility bills, official functions and activities that are not cost-effective."
Tengku Baderulzaman was pleased that the state government was now placing much emphasis on people-oriented programmes and activities.
"The (state) government needs to be more flexible and constantly adapt to changes when dealing with the needs of the people."
He called on all parties in Terengganu, including administrators, politicians and the rakyat, to be part of this cause by helping the state government deliver its pledges.
Tengku Baderulzaman also called on the government to commercialise its agriculture industry by investing in modern and large-scale projects.
At the same time, the industrial sector must continue to be developed, especially on investments that hold a comparative advantage, such as petro-chemical.
However, he said the small- -and-medium industries must continue to thrive, as the majority of locals depended on them.
He said the same applied to tourism, and expressed his pleasure that Terengganu's natural beauty and attractions had placed the state on the world map.
"The Visit Terengganu Year 2008 was a success and I hope the government will build on this by continuing to develop the local tourism industry."
Policy makers, however, must also balance the state's physical development plans with a comprehensive social agenda that encompasses a holistic and spiritual approach.
Tengku Baderulzaman reminded the government that all its achievements would mean nothing if poverty among his subjects continue to exist.
The zero-poverty agenda must continue to be a focal point in the state's poverty eradication policy, he said.
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