GUA MUSANG: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he has directed the Works Ministry to speed up the RM190 million alignment project connecting five rural roads in Kuala Betis to ease the burden suffered by the affected villagers.

He said he was informed that the project, which covers stretches of roads totalling about 94km, would take about 48 months to complete.

"I want to put a stop to the problems faced by the Orang Asli, the teachers and the school pupils in Kuala Betis and five other areas.

"Apart from the allignment project, the government also has approved RM11 million for the Batu 6 bridge project in Nenggiri.

"The government hopes the two projects will benefit not only the people in Kuala Betis and Nenggiri but also those in other areas," he said.

Zahid, who is also rural and regional development minister, said this to reporters after the ground breaking ceremony for the road allignment project in Kuala Betis.

He said the government hoped that the two projects would shorten the journey and solve the problems which were faced by the teachers and the pupils.

"This shows that the federal government via the Orang Asli Development Department (Jakoa) is committed to helping the Orang Asli community.

"I hope the government's efforts can be translated into votes (when the time comes)," he added.

The road projects, which will connect the Kuala Betis-Pos Bihai-Pos Belatim-Pos Balar-Pos Hau area, is expected to start next week and be completed in August, 2028.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1083867/zahid-orders-works-ministry-speed-rm190mil-rural-roads-project