Kuala lumpur: The government is intensifying its efforts to attract investments to special economic zone development areas as a strategy to bridge the regional development gap during the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) period, announced Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Amir Hamzah, who is currently fulfilling the responsibilities of the Economy Minister, emphasized the focus on drawing investments in various sectors such as electrical and electronics, natural resources, trade and cargo, and downstream rubber-based industries. This initiative involves collaboration with multiple stakeholders and the formulation of suitable special incentive packages to enhance these efforts.
Amir Hamzah highlighted the strategic location of Kedah and Perlis, which border Thailand, as pivotal for enhancing their roles as regional connectivity hubs. The presence of the Perlis Inland Port and improved cargo movement positions Malaysia as a catalyst for sub-regional development. For regions like Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu, the government aims to establish them as major food production zones. The anticipated commencement of the ECRL operation in the early phase of the 13MP is expected to create significant economic opportunities, particularly in agriculture, food production, and the halal industry.
The minister also mentioned the potential of transit-based development zones, aligning with the 13MP strategy. He pointed out the promising prospects in the blue economy, particularly in fisheries and shipping, which are expected to receive a boost during the 13MP period. Additionally, efforts are underway to finalize a detailed blueprint for the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), which has already attracted investment commitments amounting to RM1.34 billion, with further interest of RM78 million under negotiation.
Amir Hamzah further elaborated on the role of the Johor Talent Development Council in creating 20,000 high-income job opportunities through collaboration between investors, companies, universities, and TVET centers. In parallel, Sabah and Sarawak remain focal points for inclusive development. Sabah is set to become a hub for the blue economy with initiatives in shipping, fisheries, and coastal tourism, while Sarawak focuses on developing an energy hub centered on hydropower and hydrogen technology, along with investments in renewable energies.
Priority is also given to the development of the carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) industry in Sarawak, aimed at attracting high-impact investments and fostering clean technology development, benefiting the populations of Sabah and Sarawak.