PETALING JAYA: Perak is staking its claim as a future-forward economic hub with the signing of two strategic memoranda of understanding (MoU) by the Perak State Development Corp (PKNPk) – one with the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to explore cooperation in food security and strategic investment, and another with CHEC Construction (M) Sdn Bhd, a global infrastructure firm.
The MoUs were signed in conjunction with the Asean Summit 2025.
In a statement, PKNPk said the agreements focus on three high-impact sectors, namely the development of the Bagan Datuk International Sea-Hub Multipurpose Terminal (BDI-SMT), the establishment of a Halal and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Industrial Hub in Perak, and collaboration on sustainable food security initiatives.
“These partnerships signal growing confidence in Perak’s strategic role as a regional investment hub and its commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth.”
One MoU was signed with CHEC Construction, outlining plans to develop the BDI-SMT and establish a Halal and AI Industrial Hub in Perak.
The other was formalised with the government of the UAE to explore collaboration in food security and investment opportunities related to the BDI-SMT project.
The MoU with the government of the UAE outlines a framework to explore potential cooperation in sustainable food security and strategic investment opportunities related to the BDI-SMT project.
The collaboration will assess innovations in agricultural technology, regional trade linkages, and long-term supply chain resilience. The MoU with CHEC Construction, part of a globally recognised infrastructure group outlines a plan to jointly develop the BDI-SMT as a vital trade gateway to link China, Asean and Gulf Cooperation Council nations to the world.
“This partnership also includes the establishment of a Halal and AI Industrial Hub in Perak, designed to strengthen ethical manufacturing, promote industrial digitalisation and position Perak as a catalyst for emerging economic sectors.”
Perak Corp Bhd
will lead the development of the BDI-SMT. This strategic project supports Perak’s vision for the Lumut Maritime Industrial City as a new engine of growth anchored on maritime, logistics and industrial development.
“This initiative aligns with national priorities and is expected to contribute significantly to Malaysia’s economic and infrastructure development,” said PKNPk.
