KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 — The central region industrial cluster development initiative is set to strengthen ecosystems by deepening supply chains, directly supporting local enterprises to scale, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
The central region already has a strong network of suppliers, logistics, test labs, higher-learning institutions and innovation partners, he said.
"Our job is to connect these assets, close key gaps, and focus public support on clear outcomes. Isolated wins will not shape Malaysia’s industrial future, but by how well we connect strengths across sectors and states.
"The central region must function as a seamless production ecosystem," he said in his keynote address at the opening of 'Flagship Investment Seminar: The Industrial Cluster Development Initiative in the Central Region' today.
According to Tengku Zafrul, the initiative will start with three sectors where Malaysia is strong and the central region can scale quickly, namely the electrical and electronics (E&E), which is the nation's industrial backbone and gateway to advanced manufacturing.
Additionally, focus will also be on pharmaceuticals and medical products, and the food manufacturing and halal economy. The central region can lead in the halal economy, functional foods, and export-ready products.
"The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)-Subang-Serendah corridor exemplifies how clustering works — KLIA handles maintenance, repair, and operation (MRO), Subang focuses on aerospace manufacturing and training, and Serendah supplies precision parts.
"Within 50 km, parts move fast, talent grows nearby, and ideas spread quickly — cutting lead times, lowering risks, and boosting productivity," he added.
Tengku Zafrul also highlighted that the central region also showcased how three key frameworks converge, namely, the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, Green Investment Strategy (GIS) and the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS).
