PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged that industrial development in Malaysia be pursued in tandem with rural upliftment, warning against the emergence of stark inequalities between fast-growing industrial zones and surrounding communities.
“We can develop industries, but we must not forget the welfare of the people as a whole,” said Anwar. “Health services, education, and basic infrastructure must be considered, because we do not want a situation where the disparity between peripheral areas and industrial zones becomes too wide.”
Speaking at the official launch of the new Proton EV manufacturing plant in Tanjung Malim on Thursday, the Prime Minister emphasised that all relevant ministries must assess the development needs of local communities when facilitating industrial growth.
“All relevant ministries must consider what is needed – primary and secondary schools, and transportation from rural areas to the rapidly expanding city,” he said. “Tanjung Malim also requires training and facilities that prioritise the children of this district.”
The partnership between Proton and Chinese automotive giant Geely, he added, has already begun yielding positive benefits, especially in the field of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Malaysian youth have been afforded opportunities to undergo specialised training in China as part of the collaboration.
Tanjung Malim’s Automotive High-Tech Valley (AHTV) project, centred around Proton’s expansion, has been identified as a promising hub not only for Proton but for Geely and the broader automotive supply chain.
“The AHTV, or Automotive High-Tech Valley, must not serve only Proton, but also the supply chain and other companies,” Anwar said. “The investment from Proton alone is already significant, but we want this to become a key centre for Geely as well.”
He called on both federal and state governments, along with relevant ministries, to move swiftly in seizing the potential of the AHTV, positioning it as a strategic centre of automotive manufacturing, training, and innovation in the region.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister also suggested the possibility of Tanjung Malim evolving into a centre for automotive education, provided there is strong cooperation between all stakeholders, particularly in government and industry.
“Geely must seize this opportunity not only to produce its vehicles here, but also to establish a centre of excellence for training and education programmes,” Anwar said. “With collaboration between the state government and federal ministries, this can certainly be achieved.” - Sept 4, 2025
