Kuala lumpur: The country’s five economic corridor regions have attracted total investments of RM87.56 billion in the first 10 months of this year, as revealed by Finance Minister II and acting Economy Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. These investments have resulted in the creation of 108,243 jobs from January to October 31.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the five corridors under the jurisdiction of various authorities include the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), the East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECER), the Sabah Economic Development and Investment Authority (SEDIA), and the Regional Corridor Investment Authority (RECODA). Amir Hamzah shared during a session at the Dewan Rakyat that a Corridor Authority (PBK) Impact Assessment is underway, aimed at reviewing the role, function, and governance structure of PBK, with completion expected in the first quarter of 2026.
In response to inquiries from Members of Parliament Fathul Huzir Ayob (PN-Gerik) and Datuk Awang Hashim (PN-Pendang), Amir Hamzah indicated that the PBK’s role would concentrate on facilitating and realizing investments in the economic corridor regions, aligning with the National Investment Council’s objectives. He emphasized the ministry’s ongoing efforts to monitor project development through various meetings and coordination efforts at both the national and state levels.
Addressing a question from Fathul Huzir on budget allocations, Amir Hamzah stated that increased funding for NCIA and IRDA would support the development or upgrading of physical infrastructure. Additionally, he noted the focus on training programs, talent development, and a rural investment and entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Regarding the Perlis State Economic Development Corporation (PKENPs), Amir Hamzah clarified to Datuk Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff (PN-Rantau Panjang) that the corporation still exists, despite the absence of new project applications, with current efforts directed towards extension projects.