Kedah denies receiving proposal for Langkawi New City project

GEORGE TOWN: The Kedah state government has denied receiving a proposal for a multi-billion ringgit development in Langkawi.
Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir said he was surprised over a media report on the Langkawi New City project costing about RM30 billion to be carried out on 81ha of reclaimed land off the west side of the island.
He said the state had yet to receive the said proposal, nor was it discussed or considered.
"Approval has also yet to be given," he said in a statement.
Earlier, developer Ting Pek Khiing had announced the construction of high-end condominium units, commercial centres, berthing facilities for ocean liners and other facilities.
The Sarawakian businessman said the project is expected to bring in foreign investment to Langkawi.
Mukhriz however said Ting had actually made a bid on the project when he was mentri besar during the Barisan Nasional administration.
However, he stressed the proposal was not followed up with a deposit payment in line with the state's terms and conditions for such a mega project.
He also clarified that the bid made during the previous administration will not be considered now after PH recaptured the state in the recent election.
"There must be a formal application for any new development proposal for the state's consideration," he added.
Mukhriz said the state does not want to make things complicated especially when it comes to development, but procedures and certain guidelines need to be adhered to.
"Any project must be evaluated to identify its social, environment and economic impact," he said, adding that all these three aspects will not be compromised.