SHAH ALAM, Feb 12 — Selangor is looking to balance industrial growth with community needs while expanding initiatives to each state constituency, said state executive councillor for investment, trade, and mobility Ng Sze Han.
He said the Local Business Connect (LBC) programme was designed to link local entrepreneurs with investors and local communities, ensuring investment benefits both residents and the workforce.
He added that striking a balance between commercial, industrial, and community development is crucial to creating a harmonious environment.
“This is just the beginning. It’s a good initiative to connect businesses with the local community.
“We need to create a friendly environment for residents while also supporting businesses. The most important thing is to show more employment opportunities for locals.
“That is very important. That’s why we need to strike a balance between commercial, industrial, and residential,” he told a press conference after launching the Batu Tiga chapter of the Local Business Connect programme, at Dewan Raja Muda Musa here today.
Ng said Batu Tiga is the first state constituency to host the programme, which will soon be expanded to other constituencies.
Meanwhile, in his speech at the launch, Ng said Selangor remains a top investment destination in Malaysia, consistently recording among the most approved investments in recent years.
He said investor confidence in Selangor is enhanced by solid infrastructure, competent governance, a skilled workforce, and hands-on support from state agencies.
“When investors choose Selangor, they bring not only capital, but also technology, expertise, and new opportunities that can strengthen the local economy.
“When we talk about investment, we are really talking about job opportunities. We often hear from university students that they only realise too late that the fields they chose are not truly aligned with their interests or potential,” he said.
To address this issue, he said that over the past year, Selangor agencies have visited schools and universities to guide students on career choices.
Through the LBC programme, Ng said entrepreneurs, students, and jobseekers are brought together early on, which makes opportunities more visible.
Each investment project creates jobs at all levels, from skilled and professional roles to support and service positions.
“This is why the state government emphasises quality investments that not only drive economic growth but also strengthen the employability of the local workforce and improve the standard of living for our people.
“This is evident in the number of job opportunities created whenever an investment project is approved in Selangor,” Ng said.
He explained that from January to September 2025, approved investments in Selangor created 43,990 jobs — the higher figure recorded nationwide.
He said this reflects Selangor’s position as Malaysia’s leading state for job creation, with opportunities for all of its residents.
The LBC involves around 250 participants, including entrepreneurs and investors, with collaboration from Invest Selangor Bhd, Social Security Organisation (SOCSO), Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS), Shah Alam City Council (MBSA), Yayasan Hijrah Selangor, and other agencies.
