State government gone bonkus.....?

Categories: Malaysia

The Kelantan state government is planning to build an artificial island about 3 miles off the coast of Tumpat. The island is to take on the shape of the famous Kelantan wau bulan and is estimated to cost RM3 billion. [NST]

What is the state government trying to do? Kelantan already had enough problems - unemployment, annual floods and poor infrastructure. Why the need for such grandiose ideas? Imagine what RM3 billion can do for the state. This should be enough money to build infrastructure and convert an agriculture-base economy to a small industry-based one. Other useful spending will be improving the drainage system so that the annual flood during monsoon season can be alleviated.

Tourism is an important source of income. So it is only understandable that some money needs to be poured into this sector. But to spend RM3 billion on one project which does not guarantee a profit, is another matter all together. Kelantan already have nice beaches - Pantai Irama, Pantai Bisikan and Pantai Seri Tujuh. Why not just spruce up these beaches, build what you need to build and I am sure the tourist will come. AND it will not cost more than RM1 billion. The returns will be much better given the lower investment needed.

If RM3 billion were to be spent, who will pay for the expenditure. Given Kelantan's financial situation, even with exorbitant taxes, it would take decades if not centuries to pay for the project.

So, to the people of Kelantan, you now know what type of state government you have, and I am sure you will know what to do in the next election.