Alor Setar: Kedah recorded RM4.2 billion in investments in the first quarter of this year (1Q 2025), which is expected to generate over 1,400 job opportunities. Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said the manufacturing sector accounted for the largest share with RM3.9 billion in investments, making it the third highest among Malaysian states during the same period.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Muhammad Sanusi noted that the high-value manufacturing sector is poised for growth despite current geopolitical and economic uncertainties. This growth is driven by the development of Phase 4A and Phase 5 of the Kulim Hi-Tech Park, the Kulim Industrial Corridor, and new industrial areas such as the Kedah Rubber City and the Kedah Science Technology Park.
Muhammad Sanusi, speaking at the investiture ceremony for the 83rd birthday celebration of the Sultan of Kedah, highlighted that investors’ willingness to invest in Kedah reflects the stability, transparency, and effectiveness of the state government’s policies. He also mentioned that the development of the Border Town Corridor is progressing positively, with the opening of the Inland Clearance Depot (ICD) at the Delapan Special Border Economic Zone in Bukit Kayu Hitam.
He explained that the logistics hub is expected to attract additional container traffic estimated at 240,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) from southern Thailand, potentially contributing up to RM843 million annually to Kedah’s gross domestic product. The border town development is further supported by the construction of a road connecting the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex and the Sadao Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex in Thailand, anticipated to be completed by September.
This strategic infrastructure is projected to enhance Malaysia-Thailand bilateral trade from RM117 billion in 2023 to RM141 billion by 2027, benefiting Kedah through increased cross-border economic activities. Additionally, Muhammad Sanusi shared that the state recorded 1.5 million tourist arrivals in 1Q 2025, supported by ongoing promotional efforts for Visit Kedah Year 2025.
He expressed confidence in achieving the target of seven million tourists through the 170 programmes outlined in the Visit Kedah 2025 calendar, including 45 major events featuring elements of sports, gastronomy, technology, and spirituality.