Ahmad Zahid launches Melaka BN manifesto
ALOR GAJAH, April 13 (Bernama) -- Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi tonight launched the Melaka Barisan Nasional (BN) Manifesto which contained 62 initiatives for the well-being of the people in the state.
The BN deputy chairman also announced three additional initiatives, namely the Kuala Linggi-Masjid Tanah-Klebang-Teluk Mas coastal highway connecting Banting, Selangor; 50,000 new job opportunities in five years and a motorcycle circuit for the youth.
"As I propose these three additional initiatives in my capacity as DPM (deputy prime minister), so help the government under the BN banner garner a big victory in Melaka.
"This manifesto is not promises on paper, but promises to be fulfilled," he said when launching the Melaka BN Manifesto themed 'Creating Excellence Together' at Dataran Keris here tonight.
Also present were Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Idris Haron, who is also Melaka BN chairman and Deputy Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin, who is also Puteri UMNO chief and over 10,000 attendees.
Ahmad Zahid said the Kuala Linggi-Masjid Tanah-Klebang-Teluk Mas coastal highway which is connected to Banting, Selangor would not only provide the best transport facilities to the people but could function as a catalyst for development in the surrounding areas.
"Of course when the coastal highway is built, it will not only provide an alternative route to reduce traffic congestion but also plenty of spillover effects that will benefit the people.
"This road will further develop the area on the left and right while the rapid industrial growth will attract more investment, especially from abroad," he said.
He said the progress achieved would create more job opportunities for the local people and, for which, 50,000 new job opportunities could be quickly realised.
The government is always committed in generating more job opportunities for the youths and would strive to have more skilled workers among the locals. he said.
In this regard, Ahmad Zahid said he would propose that the minimum wages of local skilled workers in the country to be on par with overseas skilled workers.
"Private companies and companies listed on the stock exchange should assist in providing job opportunities, especially to young people and graduates, while the non governmental organisations involved will strive to implement this aspiration," he said.
Commenting on the motorcycle circuit for the youth, he said young people need some space to meet their interests and the circuit will hopefully meet that requirement without violating the rules and regulations.
Meanwhile Idris said the Melaka state government led by BN managed to fulfill the pledges made in the GE13 based on the achievement of a developed state, balanced urban and rural development as well as environmental sustainability.
He said the manifesto for GE14 features five main thrusts namely on youth, women, people with disabled, senior citizens and Orang Asli community.
"The pledges in the Melaka BN Manifesto (for GE14) with 62 initiatives start by giving priority to people from all walks of life," he added.
-- BERNAMA
