Kangar: The industrial ecosystem in Perlis, particularly within the manufacturing sector, is still in its early stages, prompting the state government to adopt a gradual, supply-and-demand-driven approach to ensure that growth takes place organically and sustainably. Perlis Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli highlighted the current state of the manufacturing sector during a question-and-answer session at the State Assembly sitting at the Seri Putra Complex.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Shukri emphasized that the presence of suppliers and vendors largely depends on the types of industries introduced and the scale of demand within the manufacturing sector. He noted that Perlis already has a natural supply base to support industries aligning with local strengths, such as the halal food sector and agro-product processing. However, he pointed out that for high-tech sectors like semiconductors, the vendor ecosystem is highly specialized, involving precision tooling, cleanroom services, and specific materials, which Perlis does not yet possess.
The Menteri Besar cited Penang as an example, where the semiconductor ecosystem developed only after anchor companies began operating, subsequently attracting vendors, subcontractors, component suppliers, and technical service providers. He expressed expectations for a similar progression in the Chuping Valley Industrial Area (CVIA) as industrial activities increase, acknowledging that this development will take time, much like Penang's journey which began in the 1970s.
Responding to a query from Gan Ay Ling (Indera Kayangan-PH) regarding mechanisms to ensure local companies, particularly small-scale entrepreneurs, can participate in the supply chain of major projects like the CVIA and the Perlis Inland Port (PIP), Mohd Shukri reiterated the state's commitment. He stressed that the logistics sector, particularly the PIP, is intended to serve as an 'economic catalyst,' but its success hinges on a proper supply-and-demand ecosystem, as logistics cannot thrive without consistent cargo movement.
The state government, recognizing the importance of involving Perlis-based small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and local entrepreneurs in the supply chain of major state projects, is adopting a realistic approach to gradually strengthen their participation, aiming to ensure sustainable economic growth for the region.