KANGAR: 5G network coverage in populated areas in Perlis stood at 91.4% by the end of last year, says the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail.

In relation to this, His Majesty said he expects the state government to take steps to explore new investment opportunities in high-tech fields that can have a major impact on the state’s economy, taking into account the rapid rate of broadband infrastructure development in the state.

“The state government must also be committed to offering more online services for the convenience of the people of Perlis,” said His Majesty when officiating the opening of the First Meeting of the Second Session of the 15th Perlis Legislative Assembly here yesterday, reported Bernama.

The Raja of Perlis’ opening speech was read by the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail.

Also present at the opening ceremony were the Raja Puan Muda of Perlis Tuanku Dr Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil and Perak Mentri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli.

Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin said His Majesty is aware that the Perlis government is preparing the Perlis State Smart City Blueprint and Action Plan, which will be the main guide and direction at the state level towards the realisation of the Perlis State Smart City.

“I believe that when the Perlis State Smart City wish is realised, it will improve the quality of life of residents as well as provide methods to overcome urban challenges through smart nation solutions and the use of technology,” His Majesty said.

Meanwhile, the Raja of Perlis said he hoped the state government could take creative steps to help the poor and hardcore poor get out of the poverty cycle.

“Until March 18, 2024, the eKasih database for Perlis recorded a total of 13,463 members of households with poor status, and 2,196 households with hardcore poor status.

“The People’s Housing Project for low-income earners is one of the programmes that can help overcome or reduce the risk of poverty,” said His Majesty.

Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin is also of the view that there needs to be serious government intervention to build more units for public housing.

In the meantime, His Majesty said treated water supply service in Perlis has not yet reached the optimum level and satisfactory quality, and non-revenue water (NRW) is also still high, at a rate of 62.5%.

“In this regard, we note that the Federal Government has agreed to give grants to all states that have a NRW rate of above 50%. It is hoped that this cooperation can help the state government in providing better water supply services to the people,” said His Majesty, who also advised consumers in Perlis to be trustworthy by paying their water bill arrears, which have now reached RM34.84mil.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/24/use-5g-to-boost-development-raja-of-perlis-tells-state-govt