Bintulu:Chinese investors are considering significant investments in aluminium production at the Samalaju Industrial Park in Sarawak, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, this proposed investment aims to increase the production capacity of aluminium-based products, catering to sectors such as construction, automotive, and other industries. The initiative is also expected to open access to new global markets.

This investment was a key topic in a meeting between Ahmad Zahid and Chinese investors and business leaders, marking the third day of his working visit to China. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that attracting Chinese investors is part of a broader strategy to channel investments into rural areas, particularly in high-tech manufacturing sectors.

He noted that incentives announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim under Budget 2027, which focus on investments outside designated industrial zones, could further attract foreign investors. Ahmad Zahid highlighted that the proposed investment in the Samalaju Industrial Park is expected to be substantial, leveraging existing and new markets.

However, the investment is contingent on approval from the Sarawak government and the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI). Ahmad Zahid plans to inform the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and MITI about establishing a One-Stop Centre (OSC) to support Chinese investors in implementing their plans in Malaysia.

He also pointed out that this investment could create job opportunities for young people and facilitate technology transfer and skills development through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. The 'factory teaching' approach, which provides practical exposure in high-tech technical fields, could be adopted for TVET students.