Perak MB Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad
PETALING JAYA: The state of Perak recorded investments worth RM6.25bil involving 203 projects as of June this year, potentially generating over 5,000 job opportunities, says its Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
He said the figure represented a 105% increase in investment value and a 224% rise in job creation compared with the same period in 2024.
“This clearly reflects investors’ confidence in the state’s strengthening investment ecosystem – firmly anchored like a ship’s anchor at sea, unwavering even amidst turbulent waves,” said the Perak Mentri Besar.
Saarani made the remarks during his royal address at the Investiture Ceremony in conjunction with the 69th birthday celebration of the Sultan of Perak at Istana Iskandariah in Kuala Kangsar yesterday.
Earlier, Sultan Nazrin Shah and Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim graced the ceremony.
Saarani said that along with the state’s growth, the labour force participation rate rose to 67.4% in the second quarter of this year from 65.6% in the same period last year.
Moreover, the state’s unemployment rate, he added, declined to 3.2% in the first quarter of this year from 3.4% a year earlier.
Under the first rolling plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan, Saarani said a total of 466 projects worth RM1.84bil have been approved across the state, covering various basic infrastructure, social facilities, education, healthcare and industrial development.
“Additionally, key projects include the upgrading of the PLUS Expressway from Slim River to South Ipoh, the development of the Perak Halal Industrial Park in Manjung, and the construction of the Tanjung Rambutan Health Clinic, all expected to deliver direct benefits to the people’s well-being.
“At the same time, Perak will also benefit from the 2026 budget through the continuation of high-impact projects including the expansion of the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park, which will strengthen the northern region’s green industry ecosystem and the development of the Lumut Maritime Industrial City as a catalyst for the regional maritime sector,” he said.
Saarani said Perak’s gross domestic product rose 4.4% in 2024 from 2.7% in 2023, with its value increasing to RM86.2bil from RM82.6bil.
“This growth was driven by the strength of the services and manufacturing sectors, which contributed 63.3% and 19.4% respectively, followed by agriculture at 14%.
“Furthermore, the construction and mining sectors also recorded growth of 2.6% and 0.6% respectively, clear signs of the state’s prosperity and the people’s determination to improve their livelihoods.
“As we approach the final stretch of 2025, I am pleased to report that the state’s financial position continues to strengthen,” he said.
“With revenue collection reaching RM1.1bil as of Nov 7, a reflection that the government under His Royal Highness’ reign is on the right course to achieve the RM1.4bil target.”
He added that the figure is expected to offset the projected deficit of RM81.8mil under the 2025 bhudget, allowing the state to record another surplus for the fourth consecutive year. — Bernama
