7/3/2011 — BERNAMA
The East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) will conduct a study on developing Bukit Bunga here as a new economic growth centre in Kelantan.
International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed said the six-month study would encompass all aspects such as infrastructural development of the area which was well-known among tourists.
“Bukit Bunga has a huge potential to be developed more aggressively because it is situated at the border complete with immigration and customs facilities.
“The study will look into how to develop the area. ECERDC will also study how the fish industry centre in Tok Bali can be developed further,” he told reporters after launching the “Empower Jeli” programme here Sunday.
Present was ECERDC Chief Executive Officer Datuk Jebasingam Issace John.
“Empower Jeli” is a human capital development programme introduced by ECERDC aimed at helping the poor, youths, jobless and disabled to increase income, secure employment and become entrepreneurs in line with the 1Malaysia concept.
Under the programme, divided into two components, tuition is provided to 700 students sitting for public examinations and special skill classes have been conducted for about 500 youths since it was introduced in April.
Mustapa, who is also chairman of the Kelantan Development Action Council, said the ECER has built 300 houses, worth RM40 million, for the poor in Gua Musang and has implemented a RM35 million halal hub project in Pasir Mas.
