SHAH ALAM, Nov 19 — The completion of projects under the First Selangor Plan (RS-1) should not be the sole measure of success, said state executive councillor for rural development and unity Datuk Rizam Ismail, after the opposition called the Sabak Bernam Development Area (Sabda) initiative a failure.
Addressing the Selangor State Legislative Assembly, Rizam explained that some Sabda projects have yet to be implemented because certain investors’ interests need to be reviewed or they involve complex land ownership transfers.
This came after opposition leader Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali claimed Sabda had failed as some projects are incomplete, adding that this reflects poor planning under the RS-1.
“For example, yes, there may be interest from foreign investors, but that doesn’t mean we should just accept them at face value,” Rizam said when winding up the 2026 Selangor Budget debate at the assembly sitting here today.
“We must review these investments in terms of efficacy, capability and future implementation. We cannot be overeager and accept every investment that comes into Sabda. Instead, each proposal must undergo thorough evaluation.
“I believe we cannot measure the (success) of a programme (merely) within a five-year period.”
Rizam pointed out that even during Azmin’s tenure as menteri besar, several projects that underwent groundbreaking ceremonies about 10 years ago were only completed under Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari’s administration.
Earlier, Azmin pointed out that to date, only 17 of the 93 projects, programmes and initiatives under RS-1, or about 18 per cent, have been completed.
The remaining, he said, are either being implemented or planned, including two high-impact projects under Sabda.
Rizam said that while some Sabda projects have yet to take off and may impact the state’s gross domestic product (GDP) performance, the initiative has nevertheless boosted Sabak Bernam’s tourism sector and delivered clear economic benefits to the local community.
“We cannot deny it has clearly had a significant economic impact on the local community. Yes, there may be opportunities from major projects that could increase the GDP, but before that happens, the state has already provided a platform that creates direct economic opportunities for locals through tourism.
“It is evident that tourism in Sabak Bernam has grown. Many homestays have been built, tourists are coming in, and this is cash income for local residents,” Rizam explained.
