ALOR STAR: Kedah collected more than RM700 million in revenue in 2024, the highest in the state's history.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor called the achievement "remarkable".
"Kedah recorded the highest-ever revenue collection in 2024. This is extraordinary. We achieved 102 per cent of the target.
"I extend my gratitude to the state government machinery, led by the state secretary (Datuk Seri Norizan Khazali), as well as all revenue collection agencies.
"My thanks also go to other agencies that, while not directly involved in collection, have practised prudent spending.
"This is unprecedented for Kedah. Achieving more than RM700 million in revenue without direct federal government funding is a significant accomplishment," he said during a gathering with civil servants at Wisma Darul Aman here today.
Sanusi said the state expected even higher revenue this year, driven by new sources of income like rare earth elements and carbon credit.
"My colleagues in the State Executive Council and I remain committed to increasing Kedah's revenue. Our primary focus is to fund initiatives that enhance the people's wellbeing.
"I hope this effort will gain the full support of civil servants. We are aiming for RM1 billion in revenue."
In January last year, Sanusi said the projected revenue for 2024 was RM724 million. He also outlined plans to reach RM1 billion in revenue in 2025, 2026 and 2027.
Today, Sanusi said with the implementation of salary adjustments under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA), civil servants must work harder to help the state achieve the RM1 billion revenue target by 2028.
"Everyone has new salaries, so there should be no lack of motivation.
"Be grateful and make the most of it. Congratulations to all civil servants benefiting from the SSPA salary increment."