SINGAPORE, MAY 22: Malaysian government body Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) will soon be participating in the development of roads and other infrastructural projects in the state.

Malaysia's works minister S Samy Vellu gave this assurance in a letter submitted to state public works minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday. Vellu's letter was in response to an invitation extended by his Maharashtra counterpart. In his letter, Gadkari described this initiative as `a shinning example of south-south cooperation'.

Maharashtra chief minister Manohar Joshi, who is currently in Kuala Lumpur with a 10-member delegation, witnessed the exchange of letters, which is expected to be a prelude to a formal government-to-government agreement.

The Indian delegation include, among others, Enkay Group of companies chairman Narik Rupani, Reliance Group president MN Chaini and VM Jog Engineering Co president Madhav Jog.

The Malayasian board has identified, among others, highways, ports, water supply projects, industrial townships and tourism are for investment. Officials representing both the sides will meet shortly to identify specific projects and initiate action to obtain the required approvals.

Speaking to The Financial Express on the phone, the state chief minister expressed his gratification at the enthusiasm displayed by the Malaysian government and businessmen in investing in Maharashtra. ``We believe this visit is the first step towards close business ties ,'' he said.

Among the private sector groups which have shown interest in investing in the state include the Berjaya group, the Binapuri group, Renong Bhd and Johan Holdings. The delegation also had discussions with the Byewater Bhd for investment in drinking water supply projects.

Several Malaysian companies have promised to sent their officials to Maharashtra to study the projects and draw up proposals.

Joshi also met Malaysian ministers of transport and tourism, and arts and culture. In his tete-a-tete with the Mayor of Kuala Lumpur, Joshi, a one-time mayor of Mumbai himself, discussed issues concerning urban development - one of the thrust areas in the delegation's agenda during the tour.

The three-day visit, a part of 12-day tour of the region, was flagged off on Wednesday with a high-powered luncheon hosted by Indian high commissioner in Kuala Lumpur, PS Sahay in honour of Joshi. Several Malaysian ministers and captains of industry were also present.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.