KUALA TERENGGANU – The Terengganu government will implement Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) in the areas around six stations of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project in the state.
Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar said this was in line with the state government’s aspiration to transform those areas into catalysts for economic growth and new industries in the state.
He said that to make this aspiration a reality, the relevant local authorities are currently developing a TOD master plan for those areas, which is expected to bring economic benefits to the local community.
“TOD is an urban planning approach that emphasises mixed-use development, easy accessibility, and efficient transportation systems.
“By integrating residents, economic activities, and public spaces while promoting pedestrian-friendly facilities, TOD can strengthen urban life, make it more progressive, and environmentally friendly,” he said when winding up the debate on the royal address at the State Legislative Assembly sitting here today.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Samsuri said that he had discussions with Transport Minister Anthony Loke a month ago to explore the possibility of turning the ECRL passenger stations into hubs for medium-weight cargo or freight delivery.
He said the presence of additional facilities for cargo would enable the establishment of small-scale industrial areas near the stations, thus boosting the economy in the surrounding areas.
“The state government is also collaborating with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) to plan the Economic Accelerator Projects (EAP) to further stimulate economic and industrial development around the ECRL stations,” he said.
The Terengganu State Assembly sitting was then adjourned sine die. – BERNAMA
