Government allocates RM3.3b for rural infrastructure, RM2.5b to replace ageing water pipes

In Malaysia's latest budget, RM3.3 billion has been set aside for rural infrastructure projects, marking a significant increase from the previous year's RM1.3 billion. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced this allocation during his Budget speech today. The funds will be used for various improvements in rural areas, including the installation of village streetlights, community facilities, and the provision of clean water and electricity supply.

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) is spearheading efforts to install solar-powered streetlights in villages, as well as rooftop solar panels at welfare homes and places of worship. Beyond these initiatives, the electricity supply is set to be enhanced at tahfiz schools, pondok religious schools, and Orang Asli settlements.

Furthermore, the Madani administration has successfully negotiated a 40-year Bulk Water Supply Agreement between the Perak and Penang state governments, ensuring improved access to clean water nationwide. To achieve this goal, RM2.5 billion has been allocated to the National Non-Revenue Water (NRW) programme. The primary focus of this programme is to replace 1,900 kilometers of ageing and critical water pipes.