KOTA BHARU: In addressing the water issues faced by Kelantan, Economic Affairs Minister Rafizi Ramli (pic) explains that the state government does not require RM8 billion. He clarifies that what the state actually needs is a new water treatment plant, which will cost around RM1.5 billion. Rafizi highlights that the existing treatment plants currently produce approximately 500 million litres of treated water per day, while the demand in Kelantan is at 600 million litres. He states that with the addition of a new treatment plant, water production can be increased to 700 million litres daily. Rafizi shares this information with reporters after attending the Madani roadshow for Pasir Tumboh state constituency in Kampung Parit Limbat on Saturday (July 15).
When questioned about the RM8 billion request, Rafizi explains that the state government had proposed the construction of five water treatment plants to address the water issue. He further elaborates, “During meetings, we mentioned that we don’t believe RM8 billion is necessary since the existing plants have the capacity to produce 500 million litres of treated water daily. We are open to considering another plant with an allocation of RM1.5 billion, which would increase treated water production to 700 million litres a day.” Rafizi emphasizes that the specific allocation is still being refined.
He adds, “If approved, the RM1.5 billion will supplement the RM500 million announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, as well as the RM1 billion announced by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.” – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
