Pix by Shahrizal Md Noor and Azhar Ramli
KANGAR: The security lane along the Malaysia-Thailand border in Padang Besar, Perlis to Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah will be transformed into the northern logistics hub to spur economic growth in the region.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in announcing this today said the long-term plan was in line with the National Logistics Policy which aims to tap into the huge potential of southern Thailand and northern Malaysia’s logistics sector.
He said the plan was mooted following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s request for a comprehensive plan to spur economic growth in Perlis during the National Physical Development Committee (NPDC) meeting which was held five months ago.
“Through this proposal, the security lane from Padang Besar to Bukit Kayu Hitam will be developed into four lanes.
“The road will be linked to the Perlis Inland Port and we are confident that this long-term plan will become the new node for the northern region growth, which will create multiplier economic effects such as new industrial area.
“This infrastructure will position our international border with Thailand as the import-export logistics hub for goods and services for the region,” he told reporters after attending a break fast session in conjunction with the ‘Penerapan Nilai Murni’ (Inculcating Good Virtues) programme organised by the Home Ministry at Masjid Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail here.
During the event, Zahid also presented Ramadan aid to 100 orphans.
Also present were Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Azlan Man, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim, Deputy Home Minister Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed, Home Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Alwi Ibrahim and Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar.
Zahid is also scheduled to join the congregation at Masjid Negeri in Arau to perform terawih prayers.