TAIPING: Preparations are already in place to build more infrastructure for workers and their families who would be moving to Proton’s Tanjung Malim plant in stages.
Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad (pic) said come 2027, some 50,000 people would be expected to be staying in Tanjung Malim once it becomes a regional automobile hub, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“He said the two most important issues are housing and schools.
“The State Secretary has chaired four meetings with the relevant bodies on the matter, even before the Prime Minister’s recent trip to China,” he told reporters after attending a meet the people session at the Advanced Technology Training Centre here on Thursday (May 11).
On Sunday (May 7), Anwar had said there is potential for Malaysia to become a regional automotive industry leader, and plans are under way to further develop national car manufacturer Proton's Tanjung Malim plant into a regional hub with foreign investment from Chinese automaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co Ltd (Geely).
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Anwar said he had discussed this with Saarani to ensure there was ease of doing business.
Saarani added that there were already some 3,000 workers at the plant.
“I was told that by 2027, a total of 10,000 employees would be stationed there.
“So if they bring their partners along, that will be 20,000 people, and if on average a family has three schoolgoing children, that would come up to 30,000 children.
“So with some 50,000 people, the need for housing will be crucial, and the State Secretary has already met with the Perak Housing and Property Board on this for immediate planning,” he said.
Saarani said there was also a need to build more primary and secondary schools around the district.
“I am sure the current available schools will not be able to accommodate the large enrolment expected.
“We have also discussed issues and services with the Tanjung Malim District Council (which will need to be) in tandem with the standards of Proton City,” he added.
