ECER attracts 56pct more realised investments to RM13.4bil in 2024
20 Jan 2025
The East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) says it has achieved RM13.4 billion in realised investments for 2024, a 56 per cent increase compared to the previous year.
This marks the highest annual investment figure ever recorded for the East Coast Economic Region (ECER).
ECERDC, in a statement today, said since 2018, private investments have totalled RM44.7 billion, bringing the council closer to its RM49 billion target under the ECER Master Plan 2.0 (EMP2.0), which concludes in 2025.
A key highlight of 2024 was the RM7.7 billion expansion of Alliance Steel (M) Sdn Bhd at the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park, further solidifying ECER’s position as a leading manufacturing hub.
Other key investments included the expansion of Eastern Steel Sdn Bhd’s steel plant, the development of an integrated waste management facility by Greenverse Sdn Bhd, and the construction of a luxury hotel on Pulau Perhentian Kecil by Ikhasas Land Transit Sdn Bhd.
ECERDC’s initiatives created 3,305 jobs and supported 641 entrepreneurial opportunities in 2024.
The fisheries sector also experienced growth with the completion of the Endau-Mersing Fish Processing Park, which has positioned Mersing as a vital fisheries hub by creating high-value seafood products and boosting market competitiveness.
ECERDC highlighted its target to achieve RM55 billion private investment under the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030).
This will come from initiatives such as the ECER Islands Master Plan and the development of 17 recreational vehicle parks along scenic routes to promote eco-tourism and sustainable travel.
The council said agriculture would remain a key focus, with the completion of Jemaluang Dairy Valley in Mersing by mid-2025 and expansion of livestock production in locations such as Segamat, Setiu, Dungun and Hulu Terengganu.
ECERDC also noted its ongoing efforts to support sustainable industrial growth. This is through the development of renewable energy zones and advanced technologies such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage facilities, aligning with Malaysia’s climate action goals.
ECERDC chief executive officer Datuk Baidzawi Che Mat expressed optimism about the council’s ability to drive inclusive and sustainable development.
“Through collaboration with federal and state governments, private investors, and local communities, we are committed to unlocking the region’s potential and delivering greater prosperity to the people of ECER,” he added.
Source: NST
