SHAH ALAM, Jan 3 — State executive councillor for infrastructure and agriculture Dato’ Izham Hashim said his focus for this year is on preparing the state’s Water Master Plan and Selangor Road and Highway Strategic Plan (JALUR) 2035 study.
He said the JALUR 2035 study, the first of its kind in Malaysia, aims to assess the capabilities of existing road networks, and will be completed at the end of the month.
“(It will determine) whether existing roads and highways are sufficient from a capacity standpoint or need to be upgraded. It will also identify missing links, which are roads that must be joined to improve connectivity,” Izham told Media Selangor.
He said the study will scrutinise traffic flow until 2035 to ensure infrastructure development is in line with economic growth and the people’s needs.
Meanwhile, on the Water Master Plan, Izham said the blueprint that will guide the industry until 2040 encompasses resource management, treated water, sewerage, and the comprehensive sustainability of the ecosystem.
He explained that this study, also the first of its kind in Malaysia, won’t only determine whether resources are sufficient, but will look at the entire water ecosystem.
“This includes drinking water, farming, treated water, sewerage, and management during drought and flooding,” he said, adding that the research of over six months is set to be completed around June.
According to Izham, the study also covers underground water, ocean water use including the potential to build desalination plants, and comprehensive management methods.
“We want to look at how the entire water system can be managed more effectively for long-term sustainability,” he explained.
Izham emphasised that both studies present comprehensive benefits for the people, especially in terms of sustainability, welfare, and long-term planning.
