PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE IN KAMPUNG SUNGAI MATI UPGRADED UNDER J-KOM MADANI ADOPTED VILLAGE INITIATIVE

TAIPING, Dec 13 (Bernama) -- Several basic infrastructure facilities in Kampung Sungai Mati, Simpang, here have been upgraded under the Department of Community Communications (J-KOM) MADANI Adopted Village initiative, involving an allocation of RM587,100.

J-KOM director-general Datuk Ismail Yusop said seven upgrading projects were implemented between October and December this year, including the construction of a concrete drainage system to mitigate flooding.

“The concrete drains will replace existing soil ditches that hinder proper water flow and contribute to flooding. This is expected to reduce flood risks during heavy rainfall,” he told reporters after the handover ceremony of the J-KOM MADANI Adopted Village at Surau Aziziah here today.

He said other works included road maintenance and resurfacing, as well as upgrading of solar-powered street lights, the surau, the community hall and business spaces for small traders.

Also present were Perak J-KOM operations director Asmar Affandi Mazran and Assistant District Officer (Development) of the Larut Matang and Selama District and Land Office Shaily Yasmin Abdullah.

The MADANI Adopted Village programme was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the 2024 Budget and further strengthened through the Public Service Reform Agenda (ARPA).

The programme focuses on balanced urban-rural development and targets villages with less than 50 per cent coverage of basic amenities.

Meanwhile, Ismail expressed hope that the initiatives implemented would ensure government assistance reaches the intended target groups, while reducing bureaucracy that previously slowed development approval processes at the village and community levels.

The event also featured a Rahmah sale, health screenings, free motorcycle engine oil changes and briefings on information technology, among other activities.

-- BERNAMA