The use of megaprojects

I’ve been reading the comments on Tun. Dr. Mahathir’s blog, and I am quite baffled by the comments which touch upon the subject of  ‘Megaprojects is useless’.

Megaprojects brings more than physical impact on the country, even if it does not bring as much profit as it would think.

Let us take the Petronas Twin Tower.

1. The construction of the tower created opportunities of local workers to work in a advanced environment. Where else we can gain this knowledge and training for our people?

2. Exchange in technology. The technology brought in during the time of construction and in various other phases is even used today.

3. The local contracted company who worked during the times gained more revenues as well reputation. Just search for info on the glass maker. That alone can be the best evidence.

4. It stands to be our landmark  in the world. After the construction of the twin tower more foreigner learned about Malaysia?

5. Direct investment is quite high comparing to other projects – even if it is not on the level we expected. Plus, who knows how much indirect investment is has caused?

6. Patriotism. I don’t know about others, but seeing the twin tower, Putrajaya and other projects makes me very proud to be a Malaysian. It gives me dreams of one day working on that project or others that gives Malaysia something to be proud of.

Let’s face it. The mega projects is not that faulty. Of course it is not perfect. Nothing can be absolute in this matter. Who could predict in 10 years time what would happen?

It is in the intention of the creator to make something for Malaysia to benefit – note that in your mind. Perhaps by at least supporting them you could help making the profit (if all what matters is just the profit) higher.

On another note, Cyberjaya for example has abundance of opportunity just that the people are not that creative and brave to venture into that sector. See how the companies now are doing?

I could go on more and more, but at least think outside the box. Don’t selfishly go and blame it all. If the logic always go as “The profit is not = or > than the initial capital is bad” we are going to be doomed. I for one vote to not live in a community where profit generation comes first rather than community benefit.