KUALA TERENGGANU, 28 APRIL 2025 – The East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) has facilitated RM1 billion in committed investments in Terengganu as of the first quarter of 2025, achieving 43% of the RM2.4 billion investment target set for the state this year. Driven largely by the tourism sector, these investments reinforce Terengganu’s position as a strategic hub for high-value tourism initiatives. 

In addition to tourism, the investments span key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services, reflecting strong investor confidence in Terengganu’s dynamic and diversified economy. These committed investments represent a significant step forward in the East Coast Economic Region’s (ECER) tourism and agricultural transformation. 

Among the projects committed are a 60 MW photovoltaic solar farm integrated into an agricultural project, an Ammonium Paratungstate processing facility, and a waste collection and treatment centre. Other developments underway are a dairy farm supported by a napier grass plantation and biodigester system, along with a Calcined Kaolin production facility. 

“As of March 2025, realised investments stood at RM729.7 million, creating over 1,000 new jobs for Terengganu. The manufacturing sector remains the key driver, followed by tourism, agriculture, and services,” said YAB Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, Menteri Besar of Terengganu. 

“Terengganu continues to position itself as a strategic destination for investors, supported by strong collaboration between the State Government, ECERDC, and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). We are committed to advancing innovation and sustainable growth across key sectors, from agriculture to high-tech manufacturing, to create quality employment, spur long-term economic progress and strengthen the state’s economic foundation,” he added. 

A key highlight at the ICC ECER Terengganu meeting was the completion of infrastructure expansion works at the Kerteh Biopolymer Park (KBP). Delivered under Phase 4A, the upgrade strengthens KBP’s role as a national platform for advanced materials, clean technologies, and biopolymer production. Since KBP commenced operations in June 2015, the industrial park has recorded RM5.1 billion in realised investments, with demand for industrial space continuing to grow. 

To support this demand, the KBP SME Complex Phase 1B is currently under construction and scheduled for completion in June 2025. Once operational, the facility will offer purpose-built units tailored for SMEs in the energy sector and support services, helping nurture a resilient and innovation-led industrial ecosystem in Terengganu. 

“The delivery of strategic infrastructure such as KBP and the successful attraction of quality investments speak to the ECERDC’s long-term commitment to building a high-performing, sustainable economy. These achievements are more than physical developments, they represent an enabling ecosystem for innovation, inclusive growth, and global investor confidence,” said YBhg. Dato’ Baidzawi Che Mat, Chief Executive Officer of ECERDC. 

In tandem with investment growth, ECERDC is progressing several key infrastructure projects. The Kuala Terengganu Airport Road Upgrade, which is currently on track for completion, will significantly enhance connectivity between Sultan Mahmud Airport and the city centre. The project includes an ‘Executive Drive’ route to facilitate logistics and improve access for investors. The KTCC Promenade Phase 1 is 56% complete, with the project designed to boost tourism and urban vibrancy. 

In addition to industrial projects, the Council also highlighted the ongoing rollout of the Inisiatif Pendapatan Rakyat – Program Usahawan Tani (IPR-INTAN) which is driven by Ministry of Economy by equipping B40 communities with modern and sustainable farming practices. The fertigation chili project in Bukit Bidong is poised to become the largest of its kind in Malaysia by end-2025, driven by precision farming systems and community-led management. Complementary initiatives include sweet potato cultivation in Kampung Banggol and Kampung Saujana, as well as an integrated agriculture project in Taman Rahmat, Marang. 

To scale the programme, ECERDC is facilitating the use of up to 400 acres across nine Terengganu locations for agro-based projects, benefiting over 400 participants. These efforts will further embed Terengganu’s reputation as a pioneer of inclusive and sustainable agriculture. 

The ICC ECER Terengganu meeting was attended by senior state and federal officials including YB Dato’ Nara Setia Dato’ Zulkifli Ali, Terengganu State Secretary, YBhg. Dato’ Haji Ishamudin Hashim, Terengganu Land and Mines Director, YBhg. Dato’ Haji Tun Ahmad Faisal Tun Abdul Razak, Deputy State Secretary (Development) / Terengganu State Economic Planning Unit Director, YBrs. Tuan Haji Abdul Kahar bin Abdul Latif, Director of Terengganu State Development, YBrs Dr. Abu Bakar Mat, PLANMalaysia Terengganu Director, YBhg. Datin Rosni binti Mohd Yusoff, Secretary of Statutory Body Strategic Management Division, Ministry of Finance, YBrs. Puan Roziana Omar, Deputy Division Secretary, Development Division, Prime Minister’s Department (PMD) and YBrs. Encik Mohd Rafizal Rahim, Director of the Investment Policy and Trade Facilitation Division, MITI. 

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