ECERDC REALISES RM1.4 BILLION IN INVESTMENTS FOR PAHANG IN 1Q2025 WITH MANUFACTURING LEADING THE GROWTH
IPR-INTAN’s Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Agro-Based Industry and Food Security
KUANTAN, 10 APRIL 2025 – The East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) continues to drive economic growth in Pahang, recording RM1.4 billion in realised investments in the first quarter of 2025 (1Q2025). This figure represents 25% of the East Coast Economic Region’s (ECER) target for the year for the state of Pahang, amounting to RM5.6 billion, marking a strong start and reinforcing investor confidence in Pahang’s growing role as a sustainable investment destination.
During the quarter, the manufacturing sector led the way, contributing 53% of total investments, followed by the oil and gas sector with 45%, bolstered by the development of a chemicals facility. The services sector accounted for the remaining 2% through the developments of mini-hydro and biomass plants that support Malaysia’s green growth agenda, completing a diverse investment portfolio.
“These encouraging figures reaffirm Pahang’s growing appeal for strategic investments, particularly in advanced manufacturing and the oil and gas industry. These projects have also created more than 700 job opportunities further uplifting the state’s economy,” said YAB Dato’ Sri Diraja Haji Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, Menteri Besar Pahang, during the Implementation and Coordination Committee (ICC) ECER Pahang meeting today.
In line with Pahang’s tourism development initiatives, two major infrastructure projects were completed to boost the state’s eco and heritage tourism potential. These include the upgrading of Bandar Pekan Lama on 22 December 2024, and the enhancement of the Turtle Conservation and Information Centre in Cherating, on 8 April 2025. Both projects are part of ECERDC’s commitment to strengthen cultural and ecological assets that support sustainable tourism.
“Moving forward, the Pahang state government remains committed to facilitating strategic investments that not only drive economic growth but also create high-quality job opportunities and long-term industrial sustainability,” added YAB Dato’ Sri Diraja Haji Wan Rosdy.
Meanwhile, a Collaboration Agreement between ECERDC, Perbadanan Setiausaha Kerajaan (PSK) Pahang and Pertubuhan Peladang Negeri Pahang (PASFA) was formalised as a programme to generate income for B40 and hardcore poor communities. This partnership will facilitate the implementation of the Inisiatif Pendapatan Rakyat – Program Usahawan Tani (IPR-INTAN) in the districts of Jerantut and Lipis, expanding the reach of modern agribusiness practices in rural areas.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by YAB Dato’ Sri Diraja Haji Wan Rosdy, alongside YB Dato’ Indera Nazri Abu Bakar, Pahang State Secretary, YBrs. Puan Zaiton Yahaya, Regional Development Director, Ministry of Economy and YBhg. Dato’ Ragu Sampasivam, Chief Operation Officer of ECERDC.
The project will be implemented by PASFA as the anchor company on state-owned land, covering 18.35 acres in Jerantut and 17.36 acres in Lipis. Chili farming using smart fertigation systems will be carried out at both sites with 30 participants employed at each location. Scheduled to begin in May 2025, the initiative is expected to generate a monthly income of RM2,000 for each participant.
“IPR-INTAN is a key initiative that aligns with Ministry of Economy and ECERDC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen food security and promote sustainable agriculture. By integrating technology-driven solutions and engaging capable private sector partners, the programme not only increases food production but also ensures participants earn a stable monthly income, thus addressing poverty at its roots,” said YBhg. Dato’ Baidzawi Che Mat, Chief Executive Officer of ECERDC.
Under the IPR-INTAN in Pahang, ECERDC is spearheading a large-scale agriculture initiative across seven districts, namely Jerantut, Lipis, Temerloh, Bentong, Pekan, Bera, and Raub, covering a total of almost 1,000 acres of land and involving an estimated 1,000 participants across various implementation phases by the end of 2025.
The scaled-up implementation model involves appointed private companies to lead high-yield agricultural projects on government or private land, supported by training and guaranteed income for participants.
With RM1.4 billion in realised investments, targeted agribusiness programmes and the completion of tourism projects, ECERDC is accelerating Pahang’s journey towards industrial and rural transformation reflecting ECERDC’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable development that uplifts communities and contributes meaningfully to the national agenda.
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ABOUT ECER AND ECERDC
The East Coast Economic Region (ECER), encompassing Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, and the districts of Mersing and Segamat in Johor, is a rapidly transforming region positioned as a distinctive, dynamic, and competitive destination for investments.
The East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) is a statutory body established to drive the implementation of the ECER Master Plan. ECERDC leads the socio-economic development of the ECER by setting strategic directions, policies, and facilitating investments to unlock the region’s potential.
Spanning over 69,000 square kilometres or 52% of Peninsular Malaysia, the ECER is home to more than 5 million people, representing approximately 15% of the national population. Economic growth in the region is propelled by four strategic thrusts—Food Basket, Tourism Destinations, Manufacturing, and the Marine Industry—complemented by advancements in logistics, infrastructure, property, and environmental sustainability, making the ECER an ideal destination for business, investment, and quality living.
For further details, please refer to our website at www.ecerdc.com.my.
For media inquiries, kindly contact:
Fatin Rasyiqah Mustaza
Manager, Media Relations
East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC)
Tel: 03-8885 0166 / 012-5881127
Email: fatinrasyiqah@ecerdc.com.my