Kota Bharu:Kelantan Sultan Muhammad V of Kelantan has urged the state government, with support from the federal government, to utilize the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) to enhance logistics efficiency and attract investment to the state. The ECRL is anticipated to begin operations in January 2027.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sultan Muhammad V emphasized the importance of this infrastructure project in expanding market access and reinforcing Kelantan's position as a competitive investment destination. He called for the upgrading of main roads, specifically those leading to key development centers in Bandar Baru Tunjong, Kota Bharu, and Cherang Tuli, Pasir Puteh.
Sultan Muhammad V expressed gratitude for the state's economic resilience, noting a growth of 4.1 percent last year compared to 3.3 percent the previous year. He highlighted the services sector as the primary economic driver, contributing 71.8 percent, followed by agriculture at 19.8 percent.
Looking ahead, the Sultan is optimistic about Kelantan's economic prospects, with the expected operation of new industrial areas in Machang and Tok Bali, Pasir Puteh, next year. Growth in construction, driven by high-impact projects and improved connectivity, along with mining based on natural resources, is anticipated to support further economic development.
He also expressed confidence in Kelantan's potential to become a leader in the blue economy on the East Coast by sustainably utilizing coastal resources and maritime ecosystems. Sultan Muhammad V welcomed the federal government's focus on strategic industries in the blue economy as outlined in the 13th Malaysia Plan, including fisheries, maritime tourism, and the shipbuilding industry.
The Sultan encouraged the East Coast Economic Region Development Council to make the Tok Bali Industrial Park a cornerstone of economic development. Furthermore, he acknowledged the state government's exploration of the green economy and renewable energy as promising avenues for sustainable growth and new revenue sources.