RANTAU PANJANG-GOLOK SECOND BRIDGE TO BOOST CROSS-BORDER TRADE, TOURISM

KOTA BHARU, Nov 6 (Bernama) -- The upcoming second Rantau Panjang-Golok Bridge, linking Kelantan with southern Thailand, is expected to deliver a major economic boost to both regions, the State Legislative Assembly was told today.

State Investment, Industry, Human Resources, Trade and Entrepreneurship Committee chairman Datuk Mejar (R) Md Anizam Ab Rahman said the new bridge, which is expected to be ready by the end of next year, would enhance cross-border trade by improving two-way connectivity and increasing import-export activities, particularly in agriculture, food, and retail sectors.

“This facility will also catalyse the growth of bilateral tourism and border travel packages. The expansion of homestays, budget accommodations, and halal food businesses is projected to generate local economic gains,” he said in reply to Zuraidin Abdullah (PAS-Chetok) during Question Time.

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Md Anizam said that the project would encourage investment and industrial development in line with Rantau Panjang’s designation as a Special Economic Zone and support the establishment of a Free Trade Zone.

He noted that the initiative would also strengthen border security and management while increasing interregional interaction and traffic flow.

“The state government has identified 13 land lots near the bridge site for infrastructure and logistics projects, including new road networks and residential areas to accommodate economic spillover and attract investors.

“Infrastructure development will definitely raise property values and improve the socio-economic standing of residents in Rantau Panjang,” he added.

-- BERNAMA