MUAR: The launch of Maharani Freeport marks a turning point in Malaysia’s economic trajectory and maritime identity, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said the Freeport will breathe new life into Malaysia’s centuries old legacy along the Straits of Melaka, which once connected East and West through trade, culture and commerce.
“Through Maharani Freeport, we reaffirm our role as a bridge of trade and civilisation in the 21st century,” he said on Saturday (Nov 29).
He spoke during the launch of Maharani Freeport at Tanjung Emas.
His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, officially unveiled the Freeport on Saturday
Also present was Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.
Anwar said the Freeport is strategically located at the southern gateway of the strait.
He said it sits along one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.
“About 100,000 vessels pass through the Straits annually,” he said.
He said the Straits of Melaka carries nearly a quarter of global seaborne oil trade and a significant portion of world commerce.
“This positions Maharani Freeport as a central hub for transhipment, logistics and regional trade,” he said.
He said it links Indo-Pacific markets with the Middle East and Europe.
Anwar said Freeport status will provide world class connectivity for global investors.
He said investors seek efficiency and strategic access to Asia’s fast growing economies.
Despite global uncertainties, Anwar said Malaysia’s economic fundamentals remain strong.
He said the government projects GDP growth of between 4% and 4.5% in 2026.
“The Freeport is expected to support these goals by expanding maritime capacity,” he said, adding it will boost logistics competitiveness and anchor Malaysia more deeply in global supply chains.
Anwar said the government has approved tax incentives for the master developer and participating companies.
He said these cover energy hub activities, deep sea port operations and trade related services.
Anwar said the Freeport will create at least 45,000 jobs and spur supporting industries and open opportunities for SMEs and help transform Muar into a dynamic economic frontier.
He said the development is also expected to stimulate growth in logistics, shipbuilding, education and urban development.
Anwar said sustainability remains a core principle of the project.
“Maharani Freeport incorporates green technologies, renewable energy systems and digital innovation,” he said.
He said these are aimed at reducing emissions and improving operational efficiency.
Anwar thanked the Johor government, Maharani Energy Gateway and investors for their collaboration.
He confirmed the Freeport has been gazetted as of Friday (Nov 28).
