MELAKA: The federal government approved RM25 million in allocation for the preservation of sites in the state designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) as World Heritage sites.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim made the announcement during an event with civil servants at the Melaka International Trade Centre, here, today.
"The allocation is relevant to meet the needs of Melaka, which is not only a state that houses important historical heritage, but also popular tourist attractions that have a special connection with China," said Anwar in his speech at the event.
Present were Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali and Public Service Department director-general Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, said Melaka is expected to receive RM238.7 million in allocations this year — an increase of about RM5 million compared with RM233.6 million last year.
He added that RM800 million had been set aside to carry out 230 development projects this year, which included the Sungai Putat Flood Mitigation Plan worth RM72.8 million and the House Repair Assistance Programme 2024/2025 valued at RM10.1 million.
The allocation, Anwar said, also included funds to carry out extension projects such as the construction of the Sungai Melaka Reservoir (RM80 million), development of the Jasin branch of the Universiti Teknologi MARA campus (RM60.4 million), construction of the Sungai Jernih Reservoir (RM60 million), upgrading of the Krubong-Durian Tunggal Flood Mitigation Pond (RM30 million) and the Rumah Mesra Rakyat Melaka programme (RM22.3 million).
At the same event, Anwar also announced that the federal government has approved RM10 million in additional funds to strengthen the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme in Melaka.
The funds, he said, could be utilised to forge stronger cooperations and establish better synergy between TVET institutions and industry players.
"Melaka has shown its capabilities in the areas of TVET following the increase cooperation and synergy with major companies such Infineon, Honda and CTRM.
"This has helped to not only ensure there is employment for the younger generation, but also that they are being paid well of minimum of RM3,500."