New Alor Star mayor to focus on adaptation, collaboration and innovation

ALOR STAR: The newly appointed Alor Star mayor, Datuk Abdul Gafar Yahya, will focus on adaptation, collaboration and innovation to advance the development of the Kedah capital.

He has also given his assurance that all tax revenue collected by the council would be reinvested to meet the needs and expectations of Alor Star residents.

"I will strive to engage with all layers of society and foster collaboration. As a local authority, MBAS (Alor Star City Council) role goes beyond enforcement and implementing by-laws; our true stakeholders are the residents of this city," he said after the swearing-in ceremony attended by council members, department directors, and division heads of MBAS.

The former Kuala Muda district officer succeeded Datuk Mohd Yusri Md Daud, who officially retired on Jan 30.

Abdul Gafar, 54, said he planned to increase on-the-ground visits to address issues such as flash floods, public amenities and cleanliness.

"To meet the expectations and needs of the people in this district, significant financial resources and solid revenue streams are required.

"I assure you that all tax revenue collected will be reinvested to meet the needs and expectations of Alor Star residents.

"I also want to invite the youth in this district to collaborate with MBAS. If they have activities or programmes they wish to organise, they are welcome to meet me. Let us work together to elevate Alor Star for our collective wellbeing," he said.

Abdul Gafar expressed his gratitude to the state government for entrusting him with the post.

"I feel honoured and fortunate to assume this position in MBAS, which has received numerous accolades, including the Five-Star Local Authority Rating System award, the Sustainable City Award and the Asean Standard Clean Tourist City Award 2024-2026.

"I am ready to serve and dedicate my efforts to ensure the needs of the residents in this area are met and well taken care of," he said.