Executive Summary

Perak, home to the historic city of Ipoh, is one of Malaysia’s most promising investment destinations. With lower land costs, abundant natural resources, strong infrastructure, and government incentives, Perak offers a competitive edge over congested urban hubs like Kuala Lumpur. This report highlights key sectors for investment, state advantages, and incentives for businesses.


Why Invest in Perak?

1. Strategic Location & Connectivity

  • Proximity to Key Markets:

    • 2.5 hours to Kuala Lumpur (via North-South Expressway).

    • 1.5 hours to Penang (a major logistics and industrial hub).

    • Direct air, rail, and sea links via Sultan Azlan Shah Airport & Lumut Port.

  • Strong Transport Infrastructure:

    • West Coast Expressway (WCE) – Enhances logistics between Perak and Klang Valley.

    • Penang-Butterworth-Kuala Lumpur (PBKL) Rail Link – Future cargo and passenger connectivity.

2. Lower Operational Costs

  • Cheaper Land & Industrial Space (vs. KL, Selangor, Penang):

    • Industrial land prices 30-50% lower than KL/Selangor.

    • Affordable factory and warehouse rentals.

  • Competitive Utility Costs:

    • Reliable water supply (Perak has abundant rivers and dams).

    • Lower electricity tariffs for industrial zones.

3. Abundant Natural Resources

  • Mining & Minerals:

    • Historically rich in tin, now focusing on rare earth elements (REE) and silica sand.

  • Agriculture & Agro-Based Industries:

    • Major producer of palm oil, rubber, durian, and aquaculture.

    • Opportunities in halal food processing and organic farming.

  • Renewable Energy Potential:

    • Solar, hydro, and biomass energy projects encouraged by state incentives.

4. Thriving Industrial & Manufacturing Zones

  • Key Industrial Areas:

    • Perak Hi-Tech Park (aerospace, electronics, medical devices).

    • Chemor Industrial Area (chemicals, machinery).

    • Seri Iskandar & Tanjung Malim (automotive, education hub).

  • Specialized Clusters:

    • Automotive: Proton City in Tanjung Malim (Proton & EV manufacturing).

    • Medical Devices & Electronics: Growing FDI in high-tech manufacturing.

5. Tourism & Real Estate Growth

  • Ipoh as a Tourism Hub:

    • Heritage tourism, gastronomy, and ecotourism (e.g., Lenggong Valley UNESCO Site).

    • Rising demand for hotels, resorts, and retirement villages.

  • Affordable Property Market:

    • Commercial & residential properties priced lower than KL/Penang.

    • High potential for industrial parks, logistics hubs, and mixed developments.

6. Government Incentives & Support

  • Perak State Investment Support:

    • Tax exemptions for pioneer industries.

    • Fast-track approvals for strategic projects.

  • Federal Incentives:

    • Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA) grants for manufacturing.

    • Special Economic Zones (SEZ) benefits in selected areas.


Key Investment Sectors in Perak

Sector Opportunities
Manufacturing Electronics, medical devices, automotive, aerospace, and machinery.
Agro-Industry Palm oil processing, durian export, aquaculture, and halal food production.
Mining & Minerals Rare earth elements (REE), silica sand, and sustainable mining practices.
Renewable Energy Solar farms, hydroelectric power, and biomass energy projects.
Tourism & Hospitality Heritage hotels, eco-resorts, retirement villages, and F&B businesses.
Logistics & Warehousing Near ports (Lumut) and highways (WCE, PLUS).

Success Stories: Who’s Investing in Perak?

  • Proton & Perodua – Automotive manufacturing in Tanjung Malim.

  • Western Digital – Electronics in Perak Hi-Tech Park.

  • Top Glove – Rubber products in Batu Gajah.

  • Tourism Projects – Luxury resorts (Banjaran Hot Springs, Lost World of Tambun).


Conclusion: Perak – The Smart Investment Choice

With low costs, strong infrastructure, rich resources, and government support, Perak is an ideal destination for manufacturing, agro-industry, tourism, and energy projects. Investors benefit from:
Lower land & operational costs than KL/Penang.
Abundant water & natural resources.
Strategic location with growing transport links.
Tax incentives and business-friendly policies.

Next Steps for Investors:

  • Contact InvestPerak (state investment agency) for tailored assistance.

  • Explore industrial zones based on your sector.

  • Leverage MIDA incentives for manufacturing projects.

Invest in Perak Today – Where Growth Meets Opportunity!


Appendix: Useful Links