Negeri sembilan: Rapid development and a steady influx of new investments have positioned Negeri Sembilan as one of the most dynamic investment destinations in the peninsula, further strengthening its role as a growing economic hub.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chennah Assemblyman Anthony Loke, who is also Transport Minister, highlighted that this investment momentum is evident from the construction of new factories and increased land purchases. This rise in land acquisitions contributes significantly to the increase in the state government's land premium collection.
"This can be clearly seen in the non-tax revenue for 2026, projected at RM372 million, driven largely by land premiums, similar to the trend over the past two years," Loke stated during a debate session at the Negeri Sembilan State Assembly.
Loke expressed optimism about the state government's goal of reaching RM1 billion in revenue by 2030, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive investment climate. He identified the Seremban Sentral project as a key catalyst in transforming the city into a modern, sustainable economic center, featuring a shopping mall, a private medical center, and an office tower integrated with the Seremban Railway Station.
He further noted that Seremban's significance as a mobility hub is set to increase with the construction of a new station and the launch of the Southern ETS (Kuala Lumpur-Johor Bahru) service. The federal government is also focusing on upgrading the double track between Seremban and Kuala Lumpur, a project expected to be completed within one to two years.
Meanwhile, Datuk Saiful Yazan Sulaiman (BN-Johol) affirmed the state's stable economic performance with a forecast growth of 3.7 to 4.0 percent next year, aligning with national projections. He highlighted the low unemployment rate of about 2.9 percent and controlled inflation at around 1.7 percent, which bolster investor confidence and ease public burden.
Saiful Yazan commended the state's success in attracting investments, noting RM7.2 billion in 2024 and RM6.2 billion as of the third quarter this year, with a projection of RM8 billion for next year.
In another development, Opposition Leader Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker (PN-Labu) urged the state government to install landmarks at the state's main entrances for Visit Negeri Sembilan Year 2026, to enhance promotional efforts. He also welcomed the state's decision to increase bonus payments to state civil servants but sought clarity on the evaluation method for transparent and objective outcomes.