Perak: The state of Perak has reported a substantial investment influx amounting to RM6.25 billion, encompassing 203 projects as of June this year, potentially leading to the creation of over 5,000 job opportunities, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad. This development marks a 105 percent increase in investment value and a 224 percent rise in job creation compared to the same period in 2024.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saarani highlighted these achievements during his speech at the Investiture Ceremony in conjunction with the 69th birthday celebration of the Sultan of Perak at Istana Iskandariah. The ceremony was graced by Sultan Nazrin Shah and Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim. Saarani noted that Perak’s labor force participation rate has increased to 67.4 percent in the second quarter of this year, up from 65.6 percent in the same period last year. Additionally, the unemployment rate has decreased to 3.2 percent in the first quarter of this year from 3.4 percent a year earlier.
Under the first rolling plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan, a total of 466 projects worth RM1.84 billion have been approved across the state. These projects span basic infrastructure, social facilities, education, healthcare, and industrial development. Key initiatives include the upgrading of the PLUS Expressway from Slim River to South Ipoh, the development of the Perak Halal Industrial Park in Manjung, and the construction of the Tanjung Rambutan Health Clinic, all aimed at enhancing the well-being of the people.
Furthermore, Perak stands to benefit from the 2026 Budget through high-impact projects such as the expansion of the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park (KIGIP) and the development of the Lumut Maritime Industrial City (LuMIC), which are expected to bolster the northern region’s green industry ecosystem and the regional maritime sector, respectively.
Saarani also reported that Perak’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 4.4 percent in 2024, up from 2.7 percent in 2023, with its value increasing to RM86.2 billion from RM82.6 billion. This growth was driven by the services and manufacturing sectors, which contributed 63.3 percent and 19.4 percent, respectively, followed by agriculture at 14 percent. The construction and mining sectors recorded growths of 2.6 and 0.6 percent, respectively, signaling the state’s prosperity.
As 2025 draws to a close, Saarani expressed satisfaction with the state’s financial position, noting that revenue collection has reached RM1.1 billion as of November 7, reflecting the government’s prudent management. This achievement is expected to offset the projected deficit of RM81.8 million under the 2025 Budget, potentially allowing the state to record another surplus for the fourth consecutive year.