Langkawi should forge its own identity, not copy Phuket or Bali, says Kedah Sultan

ALOR SETAR, July 5 — The development of Langkawi Island should be shaped according to its own identity and character, without imitating or comparing itself to other tourist destinations such as Phuket, Thailand, or Bali, Indonesia, the Sultan of Kedah, Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah, said.

His Royal Highness said Langkawi Island was a strategic asset to Kedah and the nation, serving as a premier tourist destination and a key driver of the state’s economic growth.

“Langkawi’s true strength lies in its natural treasures and unique heritage. Therefore, these valuable assets must be preserved and developed sustainably,” His Royal Highness said.

Sultan Sallehuddin made these remarks at the investiture ceremony of state honours and medals, held in conjunction with His Royal Highness’ 84th birthday at Istana Anak Bukit here today.

The Sultan of Kedah also stressed that he would not compromise with any party seeking to exploit the situation by taking actions or making statements that could tarnish Langkawi Island’s image and reputation.

Sultan Sallehuddin also expressed serious concern over delays in the implementation of several strategic infrastructure projects, including the Sungai Kedah/Anak Bukit flood mitigation plan (RTB), which has remained incomplete for a considerable period.

His Royal Highness said the delays had resulted in recurring floods that continued to affect residents in the impacted areas and called for immediate action to ensure the people were no longer burdened by the same problem.

Also present were the Sultanah of Kedah, Sultanah Maliha Tengku Ariff; Raja Muda of Kedah Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah Sultan Sallehuddin; Raja Puan Muda of Kedah Che Puan Muda Zaheeda Mohamad Ariff; Tunku Mahkota of Kedah Tunku Shazuddin Ariff Sultan Sallehuddin; and Tunku Puan Mahkota of Kedah Che Puan Nur Julie Ariff. — Bernama