Selangor offers to work with federal government to stimulate economy
Selangor's Pakatan Rakyat administration today extended an olive branch to the Federal government in an effort to jointly counter the effects of the global economic down turn.
Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, who unveiled five key areas for development, in Selangor to boost the nations economy, said the state would look towards cooperating with the Federal Government.
"The state will initiate discussions with the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) and other related government agencies in planning and implementing these efforts."
The Menteri Besar earlier said as the main contributor to Malaysia's economy, Selangor was at the forefront in cushioning the impact of a recession.
Khalid said the key areas which have been identified are the rehabilitation of the Klang River, which includes real-estate development along its banks, expanding bus and rail (LRT) links across the state, upgrading water infrastructure, urban renewal including redevelopment of slums areas and reviving abandoned housing projects.
He said these projects have the potential to create over RM50 billion in investments and 150,000 job opportunities as well as provide ample opportunities for Small and Medium Industries (SMI), which will be hit hard by the current economic situation.
This is the first phase of the state's economic plan to stimulate the economy with other ideas including expanding broadband and wireless services throughout the state and enhancing development at Pulau Indah.
"To ensure the projects are successful, the state will obtain both public and private funding besides including the Selangor Business Council, in discussions."
Khalid said his administration hopes the Federal government will be supportive of these efforts.
"We believe economic development must transcend all political differences in order to safeguard the welfare of the people."
