PAPAR: The bigger allocation of more than RM6.53 billion to the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry (NRECC) under the 2023 Budget gives more room for development of environmental sustainability programmes, its minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said.
With an increase of 8.4 per cent compared with last year, the allocation would help promote green practices, protect the country's natural treasures and create an efficient and comprehensive disaster management system, he said.
It also proved that the federal government emphasised the green agenda and wanted to provide quality and comprehensive infrastructure for the people.
"The ministry received RM1.67 billion in operating allocation, while RM4.87 billion was given for development. We will also refine every government commitment in detail to combat climate change and its impact on the country.
"The ministry will also continue to take proactive steps to help the people and have a positive impact on the country," he said after visiting the Sabah Oil and Gas Terminal (SOGT) here today.
Nik Nazmi said the 2023 Budget showed the government's commitment to drive a sustainable, inclusive and balanced economic growth that met the needs of every stakeholder, in addition to reforming institutions and governance to restore investor confidence.
Besides that, he said his two-day visit to Sabah was aimed at seeing for himself how many projects, especially those involving the ministry, were implemented in the state.
"The ministry is very committed to improving the delivery system through infrastructure projects that benefit Sabahans. I have visited several projects in Sabah today and have seen that they are capable of strengthening the water and electricity supply systems that will have an impact on Sabah's economy," he added. --Bernama