KUALA TERENGGANU: Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin has voiced his concern over attempts by certain quarters to disrupt the country’s harmony, peace and stability.
“There are certain quarters who now dare to touch on the sanctity of Islam, ridicule the Royal institutions and many more things that have the potential to cause unwanted incidents.
“I want the relevant authority to take all the necessary measures to ensure that such incidents do not happen in this country,” he said at the launch of the second session of the 14th State Assembly sitting at Wisma Darul Iman today.
Sultan Mizan was accompanied by Sultanah Terengganu Sultanah Nur Zahirah.
Sultan Mizan said he was happy that after the 14th General Election, Terengganu showed it was led by a mature leadership who emphasised unity irrespective of the political affiliations of assemblymen or the public.
“Terengganu has become the most respected state in the country because we have put aside politics and gave attention to the people’s interest and development.
“I want the state to be on par with the more developed states.”
He said the state, which received RM4.9 billion worth of investments last year, should be more aggressive in ensuring a more conducive investment ecosystem, including in infrastructure and utilities.
“The state government should focus on how to reduce the cost of doing business to attract more private investments,” he added.
Sultan Mizan said he wanted the state government to develop the Terengganu Silica Valley in Jambu Bongkok, Marang, to become a game changer in economic development.
“The processing of silica products and quartz will enhance the value chain in the state.”
He also proposed that all districts be further developed based on their strengths, particularly in agriculture and tourism.
“Districts like Setiu, Hulu Terengganu and Besut should be given new allocations for development because the household income in these districts is still low.
“Adequate allocation should be set aside to improve infrastructure, revive use of idle land and empower the agriculture sector.”
Sultan Mizan also said he wanted the state government to emphasise rebranding Terengganu as a competitive destination for eco-tourism in the region.
“Tourism will generate demand for services such as hospitality, food and beverages, handicraft and transport.
“The multiplier effect will directly benefit the people.”
He also called on the government to implement guidelines on the development of islands and marine parks approved in December last year meant to control the carrying capacity and to ensure the sustainability of the marine ecosystem.