Federal-state cooperation key to inclusive, sustainable development, says Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the critical role of federal-state collaboration in driving inclusive and sustainable national development. During the 51st National Physical Planning Council (MPFN) meeting in Putrajaya, Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, highlighted the review of various aspects of national physical development, such as land-use planning and state structure plans, in adherence to the Town and Country Planning Act.

All stakeholders must continue to enhance service delivery to bolster the investment ecosystem and simplify dealings for citizens, Anwar stated. Meanwhile, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar announced that the meeting endorsed the execution of comprehensive geological mapping along roads and other regions to identify potential sinkhole risks.

This mapping effort should be carried out jointly with local authorities. Various issues were deliberated upon during the MPFN meeting, with sinkhole threats emerging as a significant concern. In a separate Facebook post, Shamsul emphasized the urgent need for thorough risk assessment and effective methods to detect sinkhole threats, as these matters involve human lives, safety, and potential financial losses.