A TOTAL of 700 solar-powered street lamps have been approved for installation in Perak this year under the Solar Madani programme.
State science, environment and green technology committee chairman Teh Kok Lim said 80 of the light poles had already been installed in the Larut, Matang and Selama district.
“The initiative not only improves lighting but also enhances safety, using environmentally friendly renewable energy in line with the National Green Technology Policy.
“The use of solar energy reduces dependence on the electricity grid, lowers energy costs and is suitable for areas with limited access to conventional electricity infrastructure,” he said when launching the “Madani Kita” (PMK) 2026 programme at Dataran Warisan Taiping, as reported by Bernama.
Teh, who is also Aulong assemblyman, said the government was actively bridging the urban-rural development gap through the “Kampung Angkat Madani” (foster village) programme to safeguard grassroots communities.
He said the government targeted 500 villages for the programme this year, with eight villages in Larut, Matang and Selama selected for implementation from 2024 to 2026.
On PMK, Teh said the grassroots approach reflected the government’s commitment to getting closer to the people by listening to their views, understanding their concerns and ensuring their needs were addressed.
“The programme also serves as a platform to facilitate direct access to various government services, especially for people in rural areas,” he said.
The one-day programme featured various activities, including “Senam Merdeka”, e-sports, traditional sports and games, distribution of food baskets as well as free services for motorcycle engine oil change.
There were also “Jualan Rahmah” sales, health and dental screenings, distribution of seeds and saplings, and various services offered by ministries, departments and government agencies.
