KOTA BARU: Sultan of Kelantan Sultan Muhammad V today highlighted transport-related development projects and potential energy exploration in his address during the state investiture ceremony at Istana Balai Besar in conjunction with his 55th birthday celebration.
In expressing his appreciation to the federal government for its plan to extend the runway at Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP) in Pengkalan Chepa, he said it was an important step to make it an international airport and help improve the country's transport infrastructure.
"At the same time, land transportation networks play a crucial role in economic development and the well-being of the people.
"I am pleased to urge that the implementation of phase three of the East Coast Highway (LPT3) be expedited," he said.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke previously announced that the cabinet had agreed to extend the LTSIP Pengkalan Chepa runway from 2.4 km to 2.8 km in preparation for it becoming an international airport.
The decision was made after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim raised the matter in a cabinet meeting, and the project will be fast-tracked and included in the second phase of LTSIP's ongoing upgrade and expansion.
Meanwhile, the proposed LPT3 project, which would run from Kampung Gemuroh in Kuala Terengganu to Kampung Tunjong in Kota Baru, Kelantan, covering a distance of 122 km, is still under review by the Public-Private Partnership Unit (UKAS) of the Prime Minister's Department.
The Sultan of Kelantan also expressed hope that the federal government would consider extending the state's tax exemption incentives for another 15 years.
He said the extension would provide more opportunities for new investments to benefit from the ongoing development initiatives.
"It will also ensure the success and sustainability of these projects in the long run," he said.
Sultan Muhammad V also encouraged the state and federal governments to explore energy opportunities, such as hydrogen, rare earth elements and solar power, which could generate new economic resources for the state.
On floods, Sultan Muhammad V reminded the people of Kelantan to remain alert and prepared for the upcoming monsoon season.
"With the unpredictable weather, the risk of flooding in certain areas is high.
"I urge everyone to stay informed and follow the weather warnings issued by authorities so that early preparations can be made to avoid any untoward incidents," he said.
He also urged the state government to take a serious approach in improving sports infrastructure and athlete development in preparation for Kelantan to host the Malaysia Games (Sukma) in 2028.
"I hope that Kelantan will be able to compete (strongly) with other states when the state hosts Sukma.
"I also suggest that sports be seen as a new source of economy for Kelantan through the promotion of recreational and sports tourism," he added.