DR ZALIHA MUSTAFA REFLECTS ON PRODUCTIVE FIRST YEAR AS LABUAN OVERSEER, OUTLINES FUTURE GROWTH PLANS

LABUAN, Dec 8 (Bernama) -- Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr. Zaliha Mustafa has described her first year overseeing the duty-free island of Labuan as productive, but acknowledged there remains significant room for improvement.

Dr. Zaliha, who began her tenure as the Minister for Federal Territories - encompassing Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan on Dec 12, 2023, said one of Labuan’s long-standing challenges - frequent disruptions to power and water supply, had seen substantial progress under her administration.

“Feedback from the people indicates these disruptions have reduced significantly, thanks to the RM300 million allocation approved last year to address water supply issues,” said the former Health Minister.

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Additionally, she said the construction of a new power plant by Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) was underway to ensure reliable electricity.

“Expected to be completed in 2027, the plant will produce power well above Labuan’s current daily needs of 55-80 megawatts, ensuring ample capacity for future industrial growth,” she said, adding that her priority was to improve the island's basic amenities, such as water and power, to attract investments and enhance the quality of life for residents.

On boosting connectivity and tourism, Dr Zaliha said efforts to improve Labuan’s connectivity and tourism prospects were also spotlighted.

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“We have witnessed a 21.8 per cent increase in air connectivity and a remarkable 78.2 per cent rise in ferry services compared to last year, Labuan connectivity continues to improve with the recent additional AirAsia flights,” she said.

Dr Zaliha said the surge in accessibility contributed to a 16.1 per cent rise in visitor arrivals, with numbers growing from 735,939 in 2023 to 854,684 as of September 2024, while hotel occupancy rates had increased by 92.5 per cent during the same period.

She said to capitalise on Labuan’s potential, three task forces focusing on tourism, transshipment, and infrastructure development, including a bridge project, had been established.

“These teams are actively planning how to transform Labuan into a premier destination for both tourism and commerce,” Dr. Zaliha said.

On the commitment to empower local communities and the welfare of Labuan’s residents, she said the RM2.3 million Lestari Niaga initiative had provided vital support for local businesses, enabling the implementation of seven projects designed to uplift small entrepreneurs and traders, particularly in the B40 group.

“We’ve built business-friendly facilities for petty traders in areas like Taman Perumahan Mutiara and Kampung Sungai Bedaun to help them sustain and grow their livelihoods,” she said.

D Zaliha also highlighted the success of the Usaha Jaya Insan (PUJI) programme, which addresses economic and welfare needs, particularly for families living below the poverty line.

“This initiative is part of a broader effort to eradicate hardcore poverty using a ‘whole of nation’ approach,” Dr. Zaliha said, expressing optimism for the road ahead.

“I feel confident working with the right teams across Labuan, Putrajaya, and Kuala Lumpur, and we will continue to monitor and refine our initiatives to meet the people’s needs,” she said.

-- BERNAMA