Nibong tebal: The Central Terengganu Development Authority (Ketengah) has approved a budget of RM48.355 million for the First Rolling Plan (RP1) under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which will involve the implementation of 28 projects throughout the year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ketengah chairman Datuk Rozi Mamat stated that the allocation includes 22 ongoing projects valued at RM42.855 million and six new projects worth RM5.5 million. He emphasized Ketengah's dedication to the sustainable strengthening of the district's development agenda through strategic and high-impact programmes aligned with the Ketengah Strategic Plan 2025-2035.

The announcement was made during a media conference following the monthly gathering and New Year's address held at Bandar Al-Muktafi Billah Shah. Rozi highlighted that the approved projects would address various areas, including studies on slope strengthening and erosion control, smart and energy-saving lighting installations, development of the Ketengah Agrotech Valley, entrepreneur development programmes, digitalisation of tourism exploration systems, and upgrades and renovations of business premises.

Rozi expressed a desire for the swift implementation of all planned projects to ensure the targeted groups in the Ketengah region can reap the benefits. Reflecting on the previous year's performance, he revealed that RM36.436 million, or 95.05% of the total RM38.319 million allocation, was utilized for development expenditure. Operating expenditure stood at RM39.029 million, or 99.47% of the allocated RM39.237 million.

He commended the efficient financial management and high commitment of Ketengah personnel in optimizing every allocation. Additionally, Rozi noted that 13 Ketengah subsidiaries recorded encouraging profit levels despite the challenges posed by a rapidly evolving economic and social landscape last year.