DEPUTY Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, who is also the assemblyman for Datok Keramat, revealed that over RM30 million has been invested in infrastructure and flood mitigation projects in the constituency since he was first elected in 2008.
Speaking at the Datok Keramat Hari Raya Open House held at Balai Rakyat Jalan Patani today, Jagdeep said a total of RM30,426,533 has been channelled into improving the area’s infrastructure and reducing flood risks.
“These include key projects such as the installation of a screw pump and its supporting structure at the Parit Monsun outlet in Jalan Ismail Che Matt, which cost RM541,000, and a flood mitigation project in Jalan P. Ramlee worth RM414,000,” he said.
Other completed upgrades include the drainage system improvements along Jalan Ismail Che Matt (RM756,440), Jalan Maklom — which also involved building a pump house (RM290,874) — and Jalan Utama and Jalan Datuk Keramat (RM408,490).
“All of these initiatives have successfully minimised and reduced the impact of flooding in the Datok Keramat constituency,” Jagdeep noted.
For this year, he said, the state government is planning to enhance pedestrian safety by developing properly sheltered walkways along Jalan Utama and Jalan Datuk Keramat, with an estimated cost of RM300,000. The project is currently under evaluation.
Additionally, he shared that the public toilet facilities at the City Stadium will be upgraded as well at a cost of RM250,000.
Jagdeep also took a moment during his speech to pay tribute to former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who passed away yesterday.
“He was a visionary leader whose legacy of integrity, compassion, and dedication to Malaysia will always be remembered,” he said.
Jagdeep acknowledged Tun Abdullah’s contributions in guiding the nation through a transformative era, promoting Islam Hadhari, judicial reform, and transparency in governance.
“As we reflect on his contributions, let us honour his memory by continuing to uphold the values he championed. May his soul be blessed and placed among the righteous,” he added.
The Hari Raya Open House was also graced by the presence of Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.
Also present were Penang Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, Jelutong MP RSN Rayer, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran and Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI) general manager Datin Bharathi Suppiah.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat