Perlis is in the final phase of a study to create eight new towns, with gazetting planned for March 2026 under the state’s 2040 development plan.
KANGAR: The Perlis government is in the final phase of a study to establish eight new towns.
Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli said the initiative is expected to transform the state’s development landscape.
The creation of the new towns, along with the planned expansion of Kangar and Arau, is being carried out under Section 11 of the National Land Code.
“We have allocated funds to ensure the initiative can be implemented and gazetted beginning March 2026,” he told reporters after tabling the 2026 State Budget.
He said the budget is themed ‘Perlisku Bestari Rakyat Sejahtera’.
The locations of the new towns will be finalised through the ongoing study.
The gazetting process will be aligned with the Perlis State Structure Plan (RSN) 2040.
The RSN 2040 outlines the state’s long-term development direction.
Meanwhile, the state government will introduce the “Sumbangan Beras Prihatin Perlis” programme next year.
It involves an allocation of RM105,000 to support vulnerable groups of all races and religions.
The programme aims to help them cope with rising living costs.
The rice distribution will be made monthly beginning in January 2026.
Distribution will be through the service centres of elected representatives in all 15 state constituencies.
Recipient data will be verified through the Perlis Federal Development Office and related agencies to prevent duplication.
“It targets the B40 group, who will receive monthly assistance through these service centres,” Mohd Shukri said.
“We want to ensure that our people have access to sufficient, nutritious basic food.”
