Photo: Bernama
KUANTAN: The Regent of Pahang has advised the state government to be mindful of the environment while pursuing development.
Tengku Mahkota Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah (pic) said natural resources would not last long if there was no management and organised planning.
"So far, the natural resources of Pahang are expected to be able to last for 150 years. However, I want it to be able to last for 300 years or even more.
"We have no choice. We need to develop a strategy to shift from traditional economic resources such as minerals and timber to alternative sources," Tengku Hassanal said in his speech at the opening of the state assembly sitting on Monday (May 8).
He added that if there was focus, Pahang could not only be self-sustaining, but also be a major contributor to the country's economy and nett zero emissions.
"Therefore, I want my government to practise sustainable development based on the upholding of environmental, social and governance principles in every project to guarantee the welfare and prosperity of the people," he said.
Tengku Hassanal also said he often received reports on enforcement activities on trespass, theft of minerals, and illegal encroachment of forest reserves.
"I see that our enforcement activities are still at a weak level and need to be improved.
"Yes, Pahang is really vast. But this cannot be an excuse not to act aggressively against the thieves of Pahang's treasures.
"No matter what, enforcement activities have to be enhanced. I want all enforcement agencies to be strict and brave," he said as he urged the government to find a way so that enforcement could be improved, and suggested allocating a suitable budget for it so these tasks could be performed well.
On another matter, Tengku Hassanal thanked the Prime Minister for approving more than RM400mil for Pahang under the annual allocation of the Malaysian Road Record Information System.
"Through this allocation, I hope that the issue of road damages can be resolved to provide comfort to road users in the state.
"I call on my government to set up a task force and focus so that the road repair process can be expedited.
"Don't wait until the monsoon season to issue tenders or request for quotes," said the Regent.
He also thanked the federal government for continuing flood mitigation projects, adding that thousands of citizens were affected badly each time the monsoon season struck, and thus, it was important the projects were implemented immediately.
Tengku Hassanal also noted that this opening of the state assembly will be his last as the Regent of Pahang, given that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah would be returning next year as the Sultan of Pahang.
Tengku Hassanal also called on all state assemblymen from the government and Opposition to work together to develop the state.
"To the Opposition, give constructive ideas to help the government. After nearly 66 years of independence, our political landscape has to change and be mature.
"The government has to celebrate the Opposition too because they are also chosen by the people. Fair allocation has to be given to them as well.
"As for the Opposition, do not only condemn everything that the government does. Praise that which is good, and give views on that which is lacking. The people want stable and mature politics," he said.
