Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Liew Chin Tong emphasised the need for Malaysia to establish a world-class electrical and electronics (E&E) cluster in northern Malaysia, given the current significance of semiconductors in global economies, comparable to the historical role of oil.
Liew highlighted the growing importance of Kedah, Penang, Perak, and Perlis as a semiconductor cluster, positioning Malaysia as the sixth-largest global semiconductor exporter, according to The Edge Malaysia.
Expressing the desire for enhanced collaboration between state and federal governments, Liew envisioned expanding the E&E clusters in Kedah, Penang, and potentially North Perak and Perlis into a singular global semiconductor hub.
Highlighting the geopolitical advantages and trade diversions, Liew stressed the federal government’s commitment to the comprehensive development of the northern region, encompassing Penang, Kedah, north Perak, and Perlis.
Referring to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Budget 2024 announcement, Liew highlighted plans for a high-tech industrial area in Kerian, north Perak.
He underscored Malaysia’s potential to reclaim its status as a crucial high-end manufacturing hub and encouraged the establishment of a robust regional supply chain, anticipating Southeast Asia’s pivotal role in global supply chain relocations and vertical integration.
