GEORGE TOWN, July 23 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said rural development should not be measured solely by physical infrastructure and economic growth, but must also promote the well-being, values and social harmony of rural communities.
Chairing the 61st Coordination Meeting between the Minister of Rural and Regional Development and State Rural Development Executive Councillors (MEXCLUB) in Penang on Thursday, Zahid said true rural progress must strike a balance between physical development and “spiritual happiness.”
He stressed that while improvements in roads, water supply and economic opportunities are essential, development should also strengthen family values, community cohesion and the overall quality of life.
“We do not want to urbanise rural areas to the point where they lose their identity and community values. Instead, villages should be modernised through better facilities, technology and broader economic opportunities without eroding their culture and sense of togetherness,” he said.
During the meeting, Zahid announced that participants had agreed to strengthen the Desa Lestari Programme by establishing a special task force to help village cooperatives improve governance, branding, market access and strategic partnerships.
He also revealed that the government will expand the Tabika Tunas Istimewa programme with the addition of up to 132 new classes by next year, enabling more children with special needs to receive quality and inclusive early childhood education.
Zahid said the government remains committed to ensuring rural development benefits both present and future generations by building communities that are prosperous, knowledgeable, ethical and economically competitive.
— MINUTESMY
