9/9/2013 — http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/5-000-throng-ecer-open-day-in-kuantan-1.352084?ModPagespeed=noscript
KUANTAN: About 5,000 people thronged the East Coast Economic Region (ECER) open day at the Kuantan Municipal field here yesterday.
Booths provided information about ECER projects and programmes to visitors.
There were also stage shows and activities with the theme “Accelerating transformation, empowering the rakyat”.
Held in conjunction with the growth corridor’s fifth-year anniversary, the booths were a big hit as visitors had a first-hand look at models of major projects such as the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park, Kuantan Port’s expansion and agricultural-related initiatives.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob, in his speech, praised ECER for its projects in Pekan and Lipis that had helped increase the income of participants.
“Various programmes were introduced to improve the academic performance of students and to raise the income levels of disadvantaged groups.
“ECER projects have helped the poor and rural communities to improve their livelihood.”
The ECER, which includes Kelantan, Terengganu and Mersing in Johor, has attracted RM50 billion worth of investments since its launch five years ago. About RM23 billion has been invested in Pahang.
Meanwhile, ECER Development Council (ECERDC) chief executive officer Datuk Jebasingam Isaac John praised the success of ECER’s projects, which had received the state government’s support.
He said such strong commitment had enabled ECERDC to carry out a variety of programmes and projects in the state.
Yesterday, visitors braved the muddy condition at the field.
Some walked away with lucky draw prizes and goodie bags.
Shopkeeper Tan Eng Huat, 44, who brought his family to the event, said he wanted more information about ongoing projects.
“The projects are impressive. I am sure Pahang will undergo a major transformation by 2020.”
Housewife Jemah Kasim, 37, who travelled with her friends from Nenasi, Pekan, said the move to hold the open day had helped the people, especially those from rural areas, to get a clearer picture of the projects.
