Kuala lumpur: The central region industrial cluster development initiative is poised to fortify Malaysia’s ecosystems by enhancing supply chains and directly supporting local enterprises to expand, according to Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the central region already boasts a robust network of suppliers, logistics, test labs, higher-learning institutions, and innovation partners. Minister Zafrul emphasized the importance of connecting these assets, addressing key gaps, and concentrating public support on achieving clear outcomes. He noted that isolated successes will not define Malaysia’s industrial future; instead, it will depend on how well strengths across sectors and states are interconnected.
The initiative will initially focus on three sectors where Malaysia holds significant strength and where the central region can scale rapidly. These sectors include electrical and electronics (E and E), which serve as the nation’s industrial backbone and gateway to advanced manufacturing. Additionally, there will be a focus on pharmaceuticals and medical products, as well as the food manufacturing and halal economy. The central region is well-positioned to lead in the halal economy, functional foods, and export-ready products.
Minister Zafrul highlighted the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)-Subang-Serendah corridor as an example of effective clustering. In this corridor, KLIA handles maintenance, repair, and operation (MRO), Subang focuses on aerospace manufacturing and training, and Serendah supplies precision parts. This clustering allows parts to move quickly within a 50km radius, with talent growing nearby and ideas spreading rapidly, ultimately reducing lead times, lowering risks, and boosting productivity.
Furthermore, Minister Zafrul pointed out that the central region exemplifies the convergence of three key frameworks: the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, Green Investment Strategy (GIS), and the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS).