Good public transport network enhances quality of life, generates economic growth - PM Najib

Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said a good network of public transport system can help to generate the country's economic growth besides improving the people's quality of life.

Alluding to the second phase of the Semantan-Kajang Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) route, the Prime Minister said it would mark a historic milestone when fully completed this month.

"This route will serve over 500,000 passengers - a remarkable feat for Prasarana Malaysia Berhad in efforts to provide a world class public transport.

"Personally, all projects involving public transport are close to my heart, because I believe only a good public transport system can help generate the country's economic growth but primarily to improve the quality of the people's life," he said in his blog, NajibRazak.com. today.

The second phase of the route, to be launched on July 17, will complete the Sungai Buloh-Kajang MRT line of a distance of 51 km following the first phase of the Sungai Buloh-Semantan route which has 12 stations and started operation on December 16.

Najib said, if in the past, the people lived in the outskirts of towns and had to drive to search for a living but through an integrated public transport network more Malaysians will have the opportunity to improve their economic status and quality of life.

"In the past, the main problem was unconnected public transport system. Now the government strives to connect and expand further communication so that commuters can travel to their workplace faster and at a much lower cost," he said.

He said the time saved from driving to and from work for hours can now be spent reading and resting with loved ones.

"Time is gold. Indeed more leisure time and transport cost savings will enhance the quality of the people's life.

"Such investments prove the welfare of the people continues to be given priority in the formulation of government policies today," Najib added.

-- BERNAMA