PARIT BUNTAR: The Kerian Integrated Green Technology Park (Kigip) is one of the largest industrial projects in the country managed by bumiputra companies, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said he was proud that both Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) and SD Guthrie had shown their capabilities in implementing the mega project.
Anwar said two main considerations the government prioritised in implementing the people-centric project were its ecosystem and supply chain.
“Both these main factors will be coordinated by the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) together with PNB.
“With Kerian becoming the green technology hub of the country, we do not want the people, especially in Kerian, to be left out.
“Kigip is different as the funds are managed by the private sector to oversee investment, and to provide training to locals, especially those from the northern region,” he said in his speech at the groundbreaking ceremony of Kigip at Ladang Tali Ayer here on Friday (Aug 30).
Anwar added that priority must be given to the people of Kerian so that they are not marginalised as the country develops.
He said the government, through Miti and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), would continue to be proactive in introducing policy reforms to increase investor confidence and strengthen Malaysia's position as a preferred investment destination.
“All the efforts that have been and are being implemented will always be improved according to the needs and feedback from stakeholders and interested parties.
“In fact, as the National Investment Council chairman, I will continue to play a role in planning and moving the national investment agenda forward.
“I consider this important in our efforts to enhance the dignity and status of Malaysia as a developed and respected country,” he added.
Anwar said investors have been paying attention to the stable political system of the country, besides focusing on the transparent and business-friendly policies.
He said Google, Nvidia, Infineon Technologies and many other well-known giants are already aware of the Digital Transformation initiative, the New Industrial Master Plan, as well as the Madani Economy Framework.
“Thus on this historic day, this iconic project (Kigip) that I have looked forward to will begin.
“We must all join hands to implement this project as soon as possible because any delay can be exploited by other countries,” he added.