NCER Targets RM470 Bln Investment Realisation By 2030

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 15 (Bernama) -- The Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) aims to realise a cumulative investment of RM470 billion by 2030, with 70 per cent of it contributed by key sectors such as electrical and electronics, automotive, high-value tourism and modern agriculture.

The target, which is RM126.2 billion higher than the RM343.8 billion under the previous NCER development plan, is the result of an initiative under the NCER 2026-2030 Strategic Development Plan, launched by Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir here today.

The new plan also aims to increase the gross domestic product (GDP) of the Northern Region to RM369 billion; create 310,000 quality job opportunities, including 45 per cent high-skilled jobs; and raise the median household income to RM7,500.

Akmal Nasrullah said the plan launched today is a manifestation of the government's commitment to translating the vision of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to the regional level in an organised and high-impact manner.

"This plan is not just a planning document, but a key catalyst in driving NCER as a leader in high-value industrial investments and a global hub for research, development, commercialisation, as well as technology and innovation," he said at the Media Briefing: NCER Strategic Development Plan.

Akmal Nasrullah noted that these targets are not just numbers, but a reflection of the commitment to ensure that every ringgit of investment translates into increased income, quality jobs, and the well-being of the people in Perlis, Kedah, Penang, and Perak.

He stressed that to achieve this target, the new plan is supported by four pillars, namely Enhancing Capabilities; Driving Innovation; Empowering Growth; and Leveraging Regional Advantages.

These core pillars are also supported by 15 strategies and 21 initiatives designed to ensure the targets can be achieved.

"This new plan will serve as a clear and effective guide in steering the Northern Region throughout the 13MP period to emerge as a successful regional development model not only in Malaysia but also at the regional level.

"This strategic plan prioritises more balanced growth between states as well as urban and rural areas, through elements of enhancing productivity in key sectors; empowering people and talent; strengthening infrastructure and connectivity; driving innovation; improving social networks; and preserving the environment," he said.

Among the major long-term projects that will transform the landscape of the Northern Region are the Kedah Science and Technology Park, the Sidam Advanced Logistics and Manufacturing Hub, the Kedah Rubber City, the Chuping Valley Industrial Area, the Bagan Dato Industrial Area, the Penang Silicon Island, and the Northern Peninsular Border Economic Zone.

Meanwhile, Northern Corridor Implementation Authority chief executive officer, Datuk Mohamad Haris Kader Sultan, said that to realise this new target, NCER will coordinate cross-government, ministry, and agency cooperation to connect investments with talent, technology, local enterprises, and supply chains to generate broader economic value.

"Based on the encouraging achievements recorded by NCER in the 12MP, the targets set in the NCER Strategic Development Plan 2026-2030 have surpassed the targets in the 13MP for the Northern Region.

"With a clear direction and effective implementation, I am confident that NCER can strengthen its position as a preferred investment destination and a world-class technology hub, in order to bridge the development gap and enhance the well-being of the people," he added.

-- BERNAMA