Kangar: The Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, has expressed confidence in Perlis's potential to emerge as a 'Second Dubai', serving as a gateway to ASEAN countries in the upcoming years. He envisions the state evolving into a trading hub, innovation centre, and regional economic meeting point, leveraging its strategic location in northern Peninsular Malaysia bordering Thailand.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin emphasized the role of the state government, the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP), and the cooperative movement in realizing Perlis's potential. He highlighted that, akin to Dubai's global recognition as a gateway to the Middle East, Perlis could similarly become an open gateway to ASEAN.

The declaration was made during the inauguration of the ANGKASA Perlis International Market 2026 at the JPS Floating Market. The event was attended by the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, the Raja Puan Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Dr Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil, Perlis Menteri Besar Abu Bakar Hamzah, and ANGKASA president Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Fattah Abdullah.

Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin remarked that the international market serves not only as a platform for idea exchange but also attracts participation from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and China. This initiative highlights Perlis's growing reputation as a cooperative economic networking hub in the region.

The Raja of Perlis also noted the transformation of the JPS Floating Market into a competitive tourism destination, enhancing Perlis's image on a broader scale. He appreciated the program's success in garnering international attention, underscoring the state's promising potential.