ALOR STAR, Jan 17 — Kedah is placing high hopes of getting additional aid from the Federal Government, said Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Tun Dr Mahathir.

He said Kedah always appreciated all forms of aid from the Federal Government, and with its limited resources in facing current issues due to global economic uncertainties, the (additional) aid was much needed.

He said the projects proposed by Kedah, such as the Kulim International Airport, was not only in the interest of the state but would also contribute to the national economic growth.

Citing the Kedah football team which succeeded in overcoming all constraints and challenges to emerge champions of the Premier League, Malaysia Cup runners-up and Best Football Team of 2015 as an example, he said the Kedah government too was committed to achieving success beyond expectations.

Mukhriz said this in his speech at the investiture ceremony in conjunction with the 88th birthday of the Sultan of Kedah Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’Adzam Shah, at Istana Anak Bukit here, today.

Meantime, Mukhriz said the institution of the Malay Rulers must be defended to ensure the teachings of Islam continued to be implemented and did not deviate.

Sixty-eight people were conferred state awards during the ceremony. — Bernama