KOTA BHARU, April 21 - Sultan Muhammad V emphasized that the proposal to construct a wall and buffer zone at Sungai Golok must be finalized promptly.

He stated that security issues at the Malaysia-Thailand border should be taken seriously and urged the state government to prioritize the construction of the Lebir Dam, which is urgently needed to address flooding in the state.

The Sultan called for the expedited implementation of the integrated river basin project for the Kelantan and Golok rivers to tackle flooding issues, stressing that priority should be given to the construction of the Lebir Dam.

Sultan Muhammad V made these remarks during the Opening Ceremony of the Third Session of the 15th Kelantan State Assembly at the Kota Darul Naim Complex.

His arrival at around 11.40 AM was accompanied by the Speaker of the Kelantan State Assembly, Datuk Mohd. Amar Nik Abdullah.

Also present were Chief Minister Datuk Mohd. Nassuruddin Daud, his Deputy Mohamed Fadzli Hassan, and other state leaders and assembly members.

The Sultanah of Kelantan, Sultanah Nur Diana Petra Abdullah, also graced the ceremony.

Additionally, the Sultan was informed that the state government has prepared a list of applications for the First Rolling Plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13).

He expressed hope that the planned focus and direction would lead to more inclusive and sustainable development, driving economic growth and enhancing the state's competitiveness at both national and international levels.

Key areas of focus should include the development of the manufacturing sector to attract investment to Kelantan, improving clean water supply infrastructure and road networks, focusing on agriculture, and promoting tourism, he stated.

In another development, Sultan Muhammad V also hoped the state government would pay attention to the development of new towns in each district as a catalyst for the industrial sector and to stimulate economic growth.

He emphasized that the new towns should incorporate smart city concepts to ensure Kelantan keeps pace with global progress.

The Sultan noted that the state still has low investment appeal, particularly for foreign investments, compared to western coastal states that have more comprehensive port networks and trade facilities.

Therefore, related infrastructure development should be expedited, along with competitive tax exemption incentives.