PUTRAJAYA: The government has spent RM10.49 billion from 2020 to June this year in developing rural infrastructure including roads, electricity, water supply and social amenities in Orang Asli villages and remote areas.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the substantial amount underscored the government's commitment to prioritising the wellbeing and upliftment of rural communities.
He said it is important to develop rural infrastructure for the socioeconomic advancement of any nation.
"Why? Because improved infrastructure facilitates easier access to markets, allows farmers to sell their produce more efficiently and secure better prices. It also enhances healthcare and educational facilities, booststhe quality of life, reduces rural-to-urban migration, and enables rural populations to contribute more effectively to the economy.
"Moreover, robust infrastructure attracts investments, generates employment opportunities, and promotes sustainable agricultural practices.
"By prioritising the rural infrastructure development, we lay the foundation for inclusive growth and poverty reduction," said Zahid, who is and Rural and Regional Development Minister .
He said this in a speech at the 2024 National Symposium on Rural Planning and Development.
Present was Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
Zahid said rural areas are often considered the backbone of nations, due to their rich natural resources and cultural heritage and houses a significant portion of the global population.
"The importance of rural planning and development cannot be overstated, as it is crucial for achieving balanced regional growth, improving the quality of life for rural residents, and protecting the environment.
"Rural planning and development are essential for achieving a balanced and sustainable society."
Meanwhile, on the symposium- themed Economic Diversity, Resilient Future; Growing Rural Responsibility, Zahid said it was aimed at showcasing best practices in rural area planning and development.
It featured presentations from experts including members of the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) and representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Panellists from federal, state, and local agencies also contributed to the discussion.
At the event, it also saw the launch of the Spatial Characteristics of Rural Malaysia System (S-CHARMs).
Developed by the Housing and Local Government Ministry through PLANMalaysia, S-CHARMs allows information on public facilities in rural areas to be obtained and used by agencies and the public.
The system was created to provide spatial mapping of village land use integrated with the National Level Village Profile System (SPKPN) of the Economy Ministry and the Rural and Regional Development Ministry.