There has been mixed reaction to the RM40 billion mega mixed development project announced by the Menteri Besar of Kedah, Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor yesterday.
When contacted, the chairman of the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH Kedah/Perlis Chapter), Eugene Dass welcomed the move as it will provide much needed employment opportunities for locals.
“We are glad to hear of this positive news which will augur well for the state and its economy. We admire the vision of the investors.
“The MAH Kedah/Perlis Chapter is ever willing to work with the relevant authorities to see the venture become a reality.
“We also applaud the new Menteri Besar for his vision to make the state a dynamic one,” said Dass who is also the general manager of the StarCity Hotel in Alor Star.
Meanwhile another environmentalist, Anthony Wong said that for such a such a large project, it needs a good environmental impact study need to be done.
“We must look at waste water disposal as must not discharge grey water into the sea,” said Wong when contacted by Penang Hyperlocal.
Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) had voiced its displeasure in reclaiming some 2,000 acres in the waters off Langkawi Island.
They were quoted saying to FMT that “it would be akin to killing the goose that laid the golden egg”.
The whopping RM40 billion mixed development project is expected to see a new township being created near the Langkawi International Airport.
This will include two hotels, new tourism attractions, cottage industries, commercial shop lots, private hospitals, institutions of higher learning, affordable housing.
The massive project is to be undertaken by Widad Business Group Sdn Bhd with the state government in Padang Matsirat.
“The project is now under application for land acquisition and once it is completed, the earthworks can begin,” said Sanusi at a press conference yesterday.