KUALA LUMPUR: Amanah president Mohamad Sabu led the list of recipients of the Federal Territory awards, honours and medals in conjunction with the 2023 Federal Territory Day that were conferred by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.

Mohamad Sabu, better known as Mat Sabu, who is also the Agriculture and Food Security Minister, was conferred the Darjah Seri Mahkota Wilayah which carries the title "Datuk Seri" at today's investiture ceremony at Istana Negara.

The same title was conferred on six others.

Also in attendance was the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.

Meanwhile, the King in his speech instructed the government to double its efforts in preserving the well-being of the people and developing the federal territories as distinguished and sustainable cities.

His Majesty hoped that assistance to the poor and low-income groups in the federal territories could be given special focus by the government by, among others, increasing job opportunities and helping to reduce the cost of living that has been burdening the urban poor and the less affordable.

The King also expressed his concern with the flash floods that often hit Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan which, according to His Majesty, should be dealt with immediately because it not only had a bad effect on the people, but can also affect economic growth.

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong also expressed his appreciation for the proactive efforts and initiatives by the Federal Territories Department in improving the standard of living and easing the burden of its citizens through the implementation of various programmes.

Al-Sultan Abdullah emphasised the need for all ministers, the Kuala Lumpur City Hall and the city folks to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the city.

His Majesty also congratulated Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on the formation of the unity government after the 15th General Election and expressed his happiness with Anwar's commitment to apply the values of integrity in the government and to take immediate efforts to unravel the economic problems facing the people.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/02/875478/mat-sabu-now-datuk-seri