THE Kedah government is facing a shortfall of about RM100 million in revenue collection this year against its target of raking in RM701.94 million due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said more details will be provided on this during the tabling of the Kedah budget on the first day of its state assembly sitting scheduled from November 15 to 19.

“I am sure other states and even the whole world are facing a similar situation (revenue affected). Even in 2021, Covid-19 is still expected to continue to impact economic sectors,” he said after chairing a state exco meeting in Alor Star today.

He said Kedah’s budget, themed “Kedah Prosperous, Joy for All (Kedah Sejahtera, Nikmat Untuk Semua)”, will focus on efforts to reactivate economic sectors as well as optimise the state’s revenue collection.

“Our focus is also to address the impact of Covid-19 and prosper the people in Kedah. Despite the limited state revenue, we will maximise welfare activities and I encourage all parties to carry out their respective responsibilities.”

Sanusi said the state government hopes for better development in economic sectors next year following the spillover effect from mega projects expected to begin in December this year and January next year.

“Big projects, such as the five water treatment plants that have been tendered will take off in December and January, can rejuvenate many other sectors in terms of employment and building materials.”

During the presentation of the Kedah budget in October last year, the state government forecast revenue collection to reach RM701.94 million. – Bernama, October 28, 2020.