Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Budget 2024 announcement showcased substantial infrastructure allocations. One standout is the Penang Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, projected to cost RM10 billion, which will be developed in partnership with the private sector. Additionally, RM4.7 billion has been earmarked for the resurrection of five LRT3 stations, strengthening the Klang Valley’s public transport network and potentially benefiting two million commuters.
Budget 2024 also includes allocations for various infrastructure and road projects, such as RM2.8 billion for road and bridge maintenance and RM100 million for transitioning to energy-efficient LED streetlights, potentially saving up to 60% in electricity. RM50 million has been set aside for addressing high-accident areas, including the upgrade of traffic lights to smart systems on federal roads to ease congestion.
In addition to infrastructure investments, the government has allocated RM47 million for upgrading facilities at Tioman Island Airport, including a runway extension. The Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway is set for completion in 2024, with Phase 2 of the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road project commencing by late 2023. RM931 million will support the expansion of the North-South Highway (PLUS) from Sedenak to Simpang Renggam to six lanes.
For flood mitigation and prevention, RM20 million has been allocated to repair damaged ditches and drains across 150 local authorities. Additionally, RM563 million will fund slope repair, monitoring, prevention, and early warning systems nationwide, addressing over 2,000 high-risk slopes to prevent tragedies similar to those seen in Batang Kali, Selangor.
Continuing public transportation initiatives, the My50 monthly pass will persist, benefiting 180,000 Klang Valley residents. Furthermore, RM96 million is dedicated to supporting shuttle bus services for low-passenger routes in rural areas, and an additional RM150 million will expand the Stage Bus Transformation program into three new areas: Kota Bharu (Kelantan), Kuantan (Pahang), and Kota Setar (Kedah).
