Berjaya Land’s Strategic Projects in Perlis Set to Transform Northern Malaysia’s Economic Landscape
Perlis, Malaysia’s smallest state, is poised for a major transformation. In a strategic move that merges agriculture, mining, and regional development, Berjaya Land Bhd has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Impianan Utara Sdn Bhd to jointly explore and develop two high-impact projects: rare earth mineral mining and large-scale Napier grass and Blackthorn durian plantations.
These initiatives signal a bold shift in how investors perceive the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia. While Perlis has often been overlooked in favor of more urbanized states, the latest announcement—backed by Menteri Besar Incorporated (MBI) Perlis—is set to unlock new land value, create jobs, and reshape investment narratives.
A Rare Earth Mining Venture with National Significance
At the core of this collaboration is a venture into rare earth elements (REE)—a highly strategic resource that fuels industries such as electric vehicles (EVs), smartphones, and clean energy.
The planned exploration will begin in July 2025, with full-scale mining operations expected to commence by late 2026. With an initial outlay of RM15 million and an additional RM120 million earmarked for a processing factory, this project could place Perlis on the global rare earth supply chain map.
For investors and observers in the property and industrial sectors, the mining project presents several growth catalysts:
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Potential uplift in industrial land values near exploration zones
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Improved infrastructure and road connectivity to support logistics and exports
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Spillover demand for workers’ accommodation, retail, and services
Large-Scale Durian and Napier Grass Plantations in Mukim Titi Tinggi
Agriculture is also playing a central role in Berjaya’s Perlis ambitions. The second initiative involves a 3,000-acre plantation site in Mukim Titi Tinggi, with an ongoing focus on cultivating Blackthorn durians—a premium variety sought after across Asia—and Napier hybrid grass, which is commonly used in green energy and livestock feed.
With a capital expenditure of RM60 million and over 25,000 durian trees already planted, this project is envisioned to turn Perlis into a northern durian export hub, while also stimulating agrotourism and downstream processing ventures.
For real estate developers and landowners, the plantation project offers several insights:
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Agri-investment zones may experience land price appreciation
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Rural development in Titi Tinggi could attract residential and commercial investment
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Eco-tourism and homestay opportunities may emerge near plantation estates
Berjaya’s Broader Vision: Border City and Tourism-Led Growth
While the rare earth and agriculture projects headline the partnership, Berjaya Land and Impianan Utara are also exploring long-term initiatives, including the development of a border city—potentially positioned to capitalize on proximity to Thailand—and tourism projects to rejuvenate Perlis’ image.
This forward-looking vision resonates with national economic policies aimed at:
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Balancing development between Peninsular regions
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Decongesting urban migration by revitalizing small states
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Driving sustainable investments in green and knowledge-based industries
With improved infrastructure and state-level incentives, Perlis could become a magnet for investors seeking lower-cost land and first-mover advantages.
Implications for Real Estate and Land Development in Perlis
From a real estate perspective, these projects mark a paradigm shift in land potential across Perlis. While the state has historically been undervalued in property circles, its new development agenda introduces the following dynamics:
🔹 Land Banking Opportunities
Strategic parcels near mining zones, plantation belts, and future industrial parks may see rising interest from local and foreign investors.
🔹 Infrastructure-Driven Appreciation
The build-up of utilities, logistics corridors, and road networks will add long-term value to nearby residential and commercial zones.
🔹 Diversification of Property Demand
As Perlis’ economy diversifies beyond agriculture, expect new demand in sectors such as light industrial, training centers, renewable energy hubs, and affordable housing.
Government and Private Sector Collaboration: A Model for Regional Growth
This MOU reflects effective alignment between the private sector and state authorities. The presence of Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli at the signing event underscores the state’s commitment to fast-tracking investment approvals, land conversions, and incentive frameworks.
For developers, this offers:
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Policy certainty for long-term planning
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Simplified collaboration with MBI Perlis and other agencies
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Confidence in Perlis’ shift toward high-impact, multi-sector development
Conclusion: Perlis on the Verge of a New Investment Era
Berjaya Land’s dual push into rare earth and premium agriculture marks more than just corporate expansion—it signals the dawn of a new era for Perlis. With over RM195 million in combined planned investment, and future prospects in border trade and tourism, this quiet northern state is gearing up for dynamic growth.
For landowners, developers, and investors looking beyond saturated urban markets, Perlis presents a compelling case—an untapped frontier where the right vision meets rising potential.
