KUANTAN: Pahang is working to streamline processes and reduce red tape to make it easier for investors to establish businesses in the state.
Pahang Local Government, Housing, Environment, and Green Technology committee chairman Datuk Mohammad Fakhruddin Mohd Ariff said that providing clear guidelines would boost investor confidence.
"The Kuantan City Council has introduced the 'Fast 8' initiative, which reduces the approval time for high-impact investment permits from 24 months to just eight months. This initiative will soon be expanded to other local authorities in Pahang," he said.
He explained that applications for planning permission could now be submitted and processed online, including necessary impact assessments such as social, traffic, and environmental assessments.
The e-Planning Permission system aims to eliminate unnecessary regulations and bureaucracy that can delay project approvals.
Speaking at the state-level "Ease of Doing Business" clinic in Kuantan, Fakhruddin said it was important to have cooperation between state government agencies to ensure a smooth planning permission process.
"Today's clinic, conducted in collaboration with PlanMalaysia, provided stakeholders with accurate information about development planning and business opportunities in Pahang," he said.
The clinic also educates developers and investors on the rules and regulations they need to follow in Pahang.
Technical agencies shared essential knowledge about the various impact assessments required.
Fakhruddin said that similar clinics would be held in other districts to assist potential investors.