Thus far, the nation has benefited
tremendously from the optimal use of the oil and gas resources
which the region is blessed with. However, the region’s other
natural assets have gone relatively untapped. With its
beautiful islands, pristine beaches, and unique culture and
heritage, the tourism potential in this region remains
enormous.
Strategically located in the east of the
Peninsular, facing towards the East Asian countries, the
region has an excellent prospect to become the Eastern Gateway
to serve the vast Far East markets in terms of trade,
resource-based manufacturing, logistics and services.
Agriculture, the mainstay of the region’s
economy, is gradually taking on a new face thanks to
commercialisation and integration, while human capital
development is gradually taking centre stage with the
establishment of new tertiary institutions.
Hence, the formation of the East Coast
Economic Region (ECER) Development Council to spearhead the
implementation of the plan in the region is a positive move
which will fast track the socio-economic development for
the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and the district of
Mersing, Johor. While the Government will spearhead major
infrastructural initiatives in this region, the private sector
must play its role to drive the investment in this region, and
at the same time cultivate smaller businesses and
entrepreneurs.
Potential investors can look forward to an
attractive package of incentives, tailor-made especially for
this region, with the aim of transforming the ECER into a
cost-competitive and vibrant business hub, poised for future
growth. The Government, on its part will ensure that the
physical infrastructure will be in place to provide a sound
foundation for future growth. The new and enhanced land, sea
and air transportation projects as outlined in the ECER Master
Plan will significantly improve the connectivity and linkages
between the region and the Kuala Lumpur Conurbation and other
demand centres locally and internationally.
With the full commitment of both the
public and private sectors, the Government is confident that
we can all work together to realise the vision of ECER to
become a developed region by the year 2020.
Dato’ Seri Abdullah bin Hj Ahmad Badawi
