PM: Oil and gas industry the backbone of Terengganu's rapid development

- Bernama

KUALA NERUS: Terengganu has undergone a rapid development transformation process with the implementation of various types of projects worth hundreds of millions of ringgit, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (pic).

He said the oil and gas industry, especially in Kerteh and Kemaman, was the backbone of the Terengganu economy, which not only attracted many foreign investors but also increased local employment opportunities.

"Since the first oil wells were discovered and operated off the coast of the state in the early 80s, Terengganu has undergone a rapid development transformation process," he said in his speech at the closing ceremony of the Jelajah Aspirasi Keluarga Malaysia or Malaysian Family Aspirations (AKM) Tour, at the Terengganu Sports Complex here on Saturday (June 4).

He said that Terengganu is also part of the 665km-long East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) construction project, which connects Selangor with Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan.

He said the ECRL project, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, will shorten travel time from the Klang Valley to Terengganu to only four hours from seven hours before.

"This project will also stimulate Terengganu's economic growth, especially in the construction and services sector because the ECRL infrastructure covers 70% of cargo services which facilitates the transportation of construction materials across the state," he said.

In the meantime, he said the overflow of oil and gas revenue had also enabled Terengganu to develop other sectors including the tourism sector which is supported by the beauty of nature, apart from the popularity of traditional food.

He said the "Beautiful Terengganu" campaign should attract three million tourists this year as well as boost economic growth in the state.

The Prime Minister said this was coupled with the government's initiative to gazette the entrance to the Silica Port in Setiu as an additional entry point for foreign tourists. – Bernama