ALOR SETAR: Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir said higher education is crucial in promoting economic growth and development in the state.
According to him, collaboration with industries, universities and colleges could foster innovation and nurture a skilled workforce.
“Universities in advanced countries have always had a strong relationship with industries through research and development works. The higher learning institutions in Kedah too have the potential to help contribute to the development of the state,” he said.
Mukhriz said this in his opening speech at the Budget 2020 Forum organised by Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) which was held at Tabung Haji Convention Centre here this morning.
He also praised UUM, which had started to embrace the Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0), which was in line with the state’s aspirations.
“The government will implement strategies to meet the IR 4.0 challenge to help the state stay competitive like other developed countries.
“We will collaborate with institutes of higher learning such as UUM to formulate initiatives to embrace the digital revolution. UUM for example, can share their knowledge and expertise associated with IR4.0.”
On the 2020 Budget, Mukhriz said there were a lot of special provisions for the state, such as the development of Bukit Kayu Hitam as the new economic zone.
“We want to increase investment in the state. This can be achieved by having more industrial parks to attract local and foreign investors,” he said.
Mukhriz said the RM30 million allocation for glutinous rice production in Langkawi was another good move, which would encourage farmers in the state to diversify their crops to boost income.
“I hope our farmers and fishermen can seize the opportunities offered by the government to improve their economy,” he added.
