PENDANG, The Kedah Regional Development Authority (KEDA) has organized the Semarak Kasih Merdeka KEDA Convoy to enliven national month celebrations and iignite the patriotic spirit among residents of Desa KEDA settlements in the state. KEDA general manager Ismasuhaimi Shariff said the two-day convoy, which began today, features 49 motorcycle riders from KEDA Bikers, along with participants from government agencies, private companies, as well as non-governmental organisations, and will tour four Desa KEDA settlements. According to him, the convoy will first visit Desa KEDA Tanjung Setol in Pendang, then move on to Taman Sejahtera Rakyat Sungai Toh Pawang in Kuala Muda, followed by Desa KEDA Nagalilit in Kulim, and conclude at Desa KEDA Sungai Kecil Ilir in Bandar Baharu. 'The convoy is part of KEDA's efforts to promote National Month, strengthen ties between KEDA staff, and build closer relationships with Desa KEDA residents. We also aim to introduce Desa KEDA to the broader community,' he told a press con ference here today. Ismasuhaimi said that there are 56 Desa KEDA settlements, with the four visited by the convoy being those nominated for the Desa KEDA MADANI 2024 Awards held previously. 'We hope that the programmes and activities carried out through this convoy will instil a sense of appreciation for independence among the younger generation, particularly the children of KEDA. 'Independence holds various meanings...our hope is that KEDA residents will break free from poverty, strive to improve their own lives, and contribute to the success of their families and the wider KEDA community,' he said. Ismasuhaimi said that the convoy also provided an opportunity for his staff to interact directly with Desa KEDA residents and exchange ideas that will contribute to development planning efforts in the state. He said that KEDA is a key agency in rural development, overseeing housing projects such as Projek Penempatan Semula Program Perumahan Rakyat Termiskin KEDA, Kampung Perumahan Traditional, Projek Pemajua n Kawasan and Projek Pertumbuhan Desa. Source: BERNAMA News Agency