Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim delivering his speech.

BAGAN SERAI, 15 JUNE 2024 - The Federal Government has agreed in principle to approve an estimated allocation of RM4 billion for the implementation of a raw water distribution project from Sungai Perak to the Bukit Merah Dam in Kerian, part of which will be used to supply treated water to Penang.

Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim made the announcement when launching the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park (KIGIP) Master Plan at Dewan Dato' Zainal Abidin Zin, Jalan Alor Pongsu here.

"This project must be prioritised for the people of Northern Perak and Seberang Perai as it is a long-term solution.

"According to studies conducted, if the water supply in Perak is managed well, it can solve two issues, i.e., floods and water supply needs. Therefore, it is not only sufficient but exceeds requirements," he said.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister II and Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Dato' Sri Fadhilah Yusof, Perak Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Saarani Mohamad, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Perak State Assembly Speaker Dato' Mohammad Zahir Abdul Khalid, State Secretary Dato' Ahmad Suaidi Abdul Rahim, State Legal Adviser Dato' Azmir Shah Zainal Abidin, State Financial Officer Dato' Mohd Zaki Mahyudin and State Exco Members.

Meanwhile, the Perak State Government has requested the construction of a new interchange from KIGIP to Lebuhraya PLUS, estimated at RM60 million and equipped with a surau and toilet facilities.

Dato' Seri Saarani Mohamad said this when delivering his welcome speech at the event.

"The proposed location is located about 3.6km from the Alor Pongsu Toll Plaza heading north, which will become the main gateway to KIGIP.

"The construction of the interchange will benefit nearby residents, including those in Bagan Serai, Kampung Sungai Bogak, Kampung Tali Air and Pekan Simpang Lima," he said.

Source : Corporate, SUK Perak.