Tok Bali FCZ Status, Semerak Estuary Dredging To Be Assessed For Economic Benefits

KOTA BHARU, Nov 2 (Bernama) -- Proposals for regular dredging of the Semerak Canal Estuary and Free Commercial Zone (FCZ) status for Tok Bali Supply Base (TBSB) must be thoroughly assessed to strengthen the facility’s regional competitiveness.

Kelantan Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan said the assessment should consider economic benefits, financial implications, environmental sustainability and the long-term impact on the local community.

He said the State Economic Planning Unit has been told to conduct a comprehensive study covering technical requirements, infrastructure, management and potential economic benefits.

“The state government is prepared in principle to work closely with the Federal Government on the proposals, including funding, technical expertise and approvals from the relevant agencies,” he said when replying to a supplementary question from Norsham Sulaiman (PAS-Semerak) at the State Assembly sitting here today.

Mohamed Fadzli said implementation would have to comply with the legal framework, the respective jurisdictions of the state and federal governments, and regulations set by the relevant authorities.

He said the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) had no specific allocation for dredging to facilitate navigation and fishing boat landings, as its existing allocation focused on estuaries where reduced water flow capacity could increase flood risks.

However, he said DID recognised the importance of maintaining the Semerak Canal Estuary for local fishing activities and was prepared to submit a technical proposal to the Economy Ministry for consideration and approval.

-- BERNAMA