EU grant a boost to Perak’s maritime

IPOH: A grant awarded by the European Union (EU) will boost collaboration and propel the economy of Perak to new heights, says Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.

He said the grant, awarded to Perak State Development Corporation (PKNP) and Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI), will be used to study Malaysia’s potential in the port and maritime sector.

“The EU granted 1.9 million euros (about RM9.5mil) and the study is an18-month-long research that started in September.It will be focusing on several assessments, including on Malaysia in general, with the plan to attract possible EU or other foreign investors,” he told a press conference to announce the grant here yesterday.

“The grant is a strategic catalyst towards achieving the state government’s vision of establishing Perak as a maritime and logis- tics industrial hub, fostering socio-economic growth.”

On Oct 12 last year, PKNP announced that the Integrated Maritime Industrial Cluster in Manjung district was being planned, following an agreement with PoABI, a subsidiary of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

PKNP had said the agreement would see the setting up of the Lumut Maritime Industrial City (LuMIC).

It will focus on industries relating to maritime and logistics as well as those involved in international trade routes.

“Undoubtedly, this strategic collaboration will unlock additional potential and turn Lumut into an inclusive and sustainable growth engine,” said Saarani.

Also present at the event were Belgium Ambassador to Malaysia Peter Van Acker, EU Ambassador to Malaysia Michalis Rokas,

PoABI managing director Kristof Waterschoot and PKNP chief executive officer Datuk Redza Rafiq Abdul Razak.

Waterschoot said they are honoured to work hand in hand with PKNP. “Lumut already plays a vital role in Perak’s economic landscape.

Given our track record and global footprint, we are delighted to be able to work with PKNP.

“Undoubtedly, our solution driven approach combined with a sustainability mindset places us in good stead to drive this project forward,” he said