00:00The Tengku Makota of Pahang, Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah,
00:04today expressed disappointment over the federal government's decision
00:08to ban river sand exports, saying it has affected the state's revenue.
00:13Tengku Hassanal said Pahang, which has the longest river in Peninsula Malaysia,
00:18has substantial sand deposits that need dredging
00:21to ensure smooth river flow and prevent flooding, Harian Metro reported.
00:26He pointed out that Pahang previously generated tens of millions of ringgit
00:31in revenue through sand exports to other countries,
00:34but the federal government has since banned the practice,
00:37despite land and sand resources falling under state jurisdiction.
00:42He urged Pudrajaya to grant greater autonomy in project implementation,
00:46including prioritising Pahang-based companies and contractors for work within the state.
00:51Tengku Hassanal then cautioned that Pahang must not be pushed
00:55to the point of taking action against the federal government.
00:59At the same time, he also called for tourism targets
01:02and foreign visitor arrivals to be reviewed in light of external challenges,
01:07while urging the state government to upgrade infrastructure
01:10and facilities across Pahang to attract more international tourists
01:14ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
01:17Anun Jarya, FMT.
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