Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said part of the project will support the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park (Kigip) in Kerian.

“If the water supply in Perak is managed well, it will not only suffice but exceed expectations,” he said when launching the Kigip Master Plan here today.

“Through water management projects and several local programmes, it will meet the needs of Kigip and the irrigation needs in Kerian, and extend to Seberang Perai.

“It requires RM4 billion in funding, and the government in principle agrees … although not this year. But we will prioritise it.”

Present were deputy prime minister and energy transition and water transformation minister Fadillah Yusof, Perak menteri besar Saarani Mohamad, and investment, trade and industry minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz.
 
Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said approval for the proposed interchange from Kigip to the North-South Expressway (PLUS), estimated to cost RM60 million, would be expedited to support its development.

The Perak government had requested the construction of the new interchange. The proposed location is 3.6km from the Alor Pongsu toll plaza heading north, which will become the main gateway to Kigip.

Construction of the interchange will benefit nearby residents, including those in Bagan Serai, Kampung Sungai Bogak, Kampung Tali Air and Pekan Simpang Lima.
 
“Kigip will offer technical and vocational education and training (TVET) opportunities to local youths. Companies can hire many local engineers and provide them with high incomes,” Anwar said.

Meanwhile, Fadillah said a committee chaired by him had been established to ensure that all infrastructure, including for energy, water, roads and communications, necessary for the Kigip project are completed as soon as possible.