The government has approved RM32 million to develop infrastructure projects in 607 Chinese new villages nationwide, says Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Wee Ka Siong.

Wee, who is in charge of development of Chinese new villages and the small and medium industries, said the amount was from the RM33 million allocation for such projects this year.

"To date, 264 projects are ready and involve an allocation of RM18.4 million," he told reporters after a meeting with 70 village development officers (PKP) and the new village division officer at Menara Usahawan in Putrajaya today.

During the meeting, he also urged PKP officials to plan development projects in the new villages early, by submitting complete proposals.

On special loan schemes for residents of new villages, Wee said so far, the government has allocated RM16.951 million to 469 residents of new villages to carry out small-scale business activities.

The loan scheme of about RM100 million is provided and executed through Bank Simpanan Nasional to help residents of new villages, especially those who need funds to start small businesses.

- Bernama