Perak banking on tourism to boost state economy

IPOH: With interstate travel looming, the tourism sector is expected to boost Perak’s economy, says Datuk Saarani Mohamad.

The Perak Mentri Besar said the state was on track to enter the next economic recovery phase.

“Currently, we have recorded stellar investment data of RM5.2bil between January and June this year. That is equivalent to a 126% increase compared to last year.

“Once the interstate travel ban is lifted, it would definitely help us to boost our economy, especially in the tourism sector,” he said at the State Secretariat Building here yesterday.

Saarani said the state recorded a total of RM5.6bil in investment last year. “The amount invested in the state could probably double or perhaps triple by the end of the year. For now, the increase has created over 4,000 job opportunities.

“Among the investments dominating the data are 21 factory projects accounting for about RM4.06bil. This data includes an aquaculture and food project by a company from China in Larut Matang Selama district.

“The state administration is working closely with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) to strengthen the business process as well as to improve the efficiency of various organisational functions,” he said.

Separately, he welcomed tourists to the state once the interstate ban is lifted.

“During our recent exco meeting, we discussed the success behind the Federal Government’s bubble tourism concept in Langkawi.

“Taking Pangkor as an example for Perak, we believe that once interstate travel is allowed, members of the public would rush to go there.

“We expect a huge crowd and hope the agencies related to the tourism industry won’t take the SOP lightly,” he said.