Perak: Perak is set to receive an investment worth US$50 million (US$1=RM4.07) from a South Korean company involved in the electrical and electronics industry, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad. Saarani announced this development during the presentation of the Fourth Perak Sejahtera 2030 Annual Report, expressing hope that the investment will significantly contribute to the state's economic growth and reduce unemployment rates in the coming year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) reported that Perak received RM1.76 billion in approved private investments from January to March this year. Additionally, the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) indicated that Perak's unemployment rate last year stood at 3.5 percent. Saarani further revealed that the South Korean company plans to explore potential sites within the state, including locations such as the new KLK TechPark in Tanjong Malim, Lumut Maritime Industrial City in Sitiawan, and the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park.
Saarani underscored the progress of the Perak Sejahtera 2030 plan, noting its success in translating economic growth into tangible benefits for the people. The plan, launched on June 15, 2022, is backed by Perak's economic growth of 5.7 percent to RM91.5 billion in 2025, surpassing the national growth rate of 5.2 percent. Perak stands as the sixth-largest contributor to Malaysia's GDP, with a 5.3 percent contribution to the national economy.
The state's development strategy emphasizes five strategic growth nodes, serving as the foundation for job creation, industrial supply chain strengthening, and economic spillover across Perak's districts. Saarani emphasized that economic achievements and investments are meaningful only when they translate into employment opportunities, business growth, and improved well-being for the people.
Perak Sejahtera 2030 aims to ensure that development benefits reach the populace through initiatives focused on cost of living, food security, education, healthcare, housing, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities. Saarani highlighted the growing confidence in Perak as a result of government policies, clearer pathways for youth, and continued investments and strategic projects supported by the Federal Government.
To ensure the relevance of Perak Sejahtera 2030 as it progresses towards its goals, a mid-term review is underway. This review will coordinate monitoring indicators, improve flagship programmes, and evaluate the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Dashboard. It will consider the effectiveness of current implementations, insights from stakeholder engagements, and emerging economic trends.
Saarani concluded by emphasizing the theme 'Hasil Dirasa, Keyakinan Dibina' ('Results Felt, Confidence Built') as the guiding principle for the next phase of action, ensuring that Perak Sejahtera 2030 remains a vibrant and meaningful framework for the people of Perak.