SHAH ALAM, Nov 21 — Long-term development projects, the Second Selangor Plan (RS-2), and deeper engagement with Asean markets will be central to strengthening Selangor’s economic competitiveness, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
Speaking at the Selangor Investors Appreciation Awards 2023-2024 (SIAA), he said the state must elevate its economic strategy by adopting a more regional outlook that allows Selangor to tap into broader Southeast Asean opportunities.
“The task at hand is how to reach to the next level, and to make that leap, we have to think at the regional level,” he said at the Setia City Convention Centre here last night.
He added that global uncertainties and shifting geopolitical dynamics require Selangor to strengthen multilateral cooperation, diversify export markets and capitalise on Asean-level frameworks.
Amirudin also pointed to Malaysia’s recent Asean chairmanship, which opened new opportunities through enhanced trade agreements, digital economy initiatives and renewable energy commitments on which Selangor hopes to capitalise.
“Selangor will explore and leverage the vast opportunities created through Malaysia’s recent Asean chairmanship. These efforts align with the state’s ongoing mission to reinforce Selangor’s strategic role within Asean.”
He encouraged companies eyeing regional expansion to work with Invest Selangor Bhd, which is prepared to help local businesses venture into Asean markets next year.
“I’m glad to be (at this awards ceremony) here this evening as we gather to appreciate the important investors who have ramped up the heartbeat and pace of Selangor’s economy over the past two years.
“The SIAA 2023-2024 is testament to your exceptional achievements and unwavering commitment. Together, we will continue to build a state that stands as a model of growth, inclusivity, and opportunity for all,” he said.
The menteri besar added that the RS-2, which will be tabled mid-next year, will spell out the state’s socio-economic direction for the next five years.
Meanwhile, Amirudin noted that from January to September this year, Selangor secured RM51.9 billion in approved investments through 1,470 projects, accounting for 30 per cent of Malaysia’s total approved investments and second only to Johor.
He said this performance reflects strong confidence in Selangor as Malaysia’s leading long-term investment destination.
Amirudin added that major strategic projects, such as the Integrated Development Region in South Selangor (Idriss), Sabak Bernam Development Area (Sabda), Selangor Maritime Gateway (SMG), Serendah-Lembah Beringin automotive and rail hub, and seven Managed Industrial Parks (MIP) spanning 1,500ha, form key pillars of the 2026 Selangor Budget.
He said the Speed Selangor policy launched last month is another initiative that is set to benefit investors, by shortening business approvals from three months to as little as 14 days. For projects with a Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC), local councils can issue licences within 24 hours.
Speed Selangor will first apply to strategic industries such as electrical and electronics (E&E), aerospace, and semiconductors, before covering all sectors.
