Ipoh Sentral: Perak’s Mega Development to Create 20,000 Jobs and Ignite Malaysia’s Property Momentum

A transformative new chapter is unfolding in Perak with the launch of the RM6.25 billion Ipoh Sentral development project, a massive undertaking poised to redefine the region’s economy and urban landscape. Designed as an integrated transport and lifestyle hub, Ipoh Sentral is projected to create over 20,000 jobs and catalyse new waves of investment — both within Perak and across Malaysia’s broader property ecosystem.

Much like how KL Sentral revolutionised connectivity and urban living in the capital, Ipoh Sentral aims to anchor the northern corridor’s growth, bringing new opportunities for businesses, residents, and investors.

A Catalyst for Perak’s Economic Transformation

According to Perak state executive councillor Nizar Jamaluddin, the high-impact Ipoh Sentral project will become a key engine of growth for the state.

From KL Sentral to Ipoh Sentral: A Proven Urban Model

The Ipoh Sentral blueprint is inspired by the success of KL Sentral, Malaysia’s premier transit-oriented development (TOD). Much like its Kuala Lumpur counterpart, Ipoh Sentral will integrate rail, road, and lifestyle infrastructure, linking transportation with business, leisure, and residential components.

The collaboration between RAC and KTM Bhd (KTMB) aims to position Ipoh Sentral as a regional transport hub, connecting the northern and central economic zones. Once completed, the hub will not only enhance public mobility but also elevate Ipoh’s attractiveness as a modern, livable, and investable city.

This model of mixed-use, rail-linked urban development has already proven to be a magnet for real estate appreciation in Kuala Lumpur. Property prices and rental yields around KL Sentral and Brickfields saw sustained growth following the completion of the integrated transport hub. Ipoh is now poised for a similar transformation.

20,000 Jobs and a Thriving Local Economy

Beyond its physical infrastructure, Ipoh Sentral’s greatest value lies in its potential to generate employment and foster new industries.

More than 20,000 jobs are expected to be created across various sectors — from engineering, architecture, and construction during the development phase to hospitality, retail, logistics, and business services once operational.

“The opportunities offered cover various segments such as hotels, shopping malls, business complexes and other facilities that support Ipoh Sentral,” Nizar said.

This expansion will inject new energy into Perak’s economy, retain local talent, and attract investors seeking growth markets outside the Klang Valley.

A Phased Vision of Sustainable Growth

The project’s long-term master plan involves two major development phases. The first phase will focus on public infrastructure — including landscaping, heritage preservation, and community facilities — to ensure that the development enhances Ipoh’s identity rather than replaces it.

The second phase will introduce mixed-use components such as housing, commercial offices, hotels, and retail complexes. These developments are expected to attract private investors, foreign buyers, and Malaysians looking for second-home or business opportunities outside the capital.

By combining urban modernity with heritage-conscious design, Ipoh Sentral will elevate Perak’s profile as one of Malaysia’s most promising investment corridors.

Infrastructure as the Foundation of Property Growth

History has shown that infrastructure investment and property growth go hand in hand. In Kuala Lumpur, landmark projects like KL Sentral, TRX (Tun Razak Exchange), and Merdeka 118 Precinct have not only modernised the skyline but also triggered exponential growth in surrounding property values.

Similarly, Ipoh Sentral’s arrival will likely spur development in nearby areas such as Batu Gajah, Menglembu, and Tambun, leading to higher land demand, improved amenities, and rising property prices.

For investors, this presents a golden window of opportunity — to identify and secure properties in secondary cities before full infrastructure completion. As connectivity between Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur strengthens through KTMB and future high-speed rail (HSR) networks, real estate values are expected to align more closely with urban centres.

A National Push for Balanced Development

The federal government’s support for Ipoh Sentral aligns with Malaysia’s Madani Economy framework, which prioritises balanced regional growth, sustainable urbanisation, and job creation. By decentralising mega projects to states like Perak, Malaysia strengthens its resilience while expanding the property market beyond traditional hotspots.

For Kuala Lumpur, this nationwide progress only adds to its appeal as Malaysia’s economic nerve centre. As regional connectivity improves, KL remains the key business anchor linking secondary cities like Ipoh, Penang, and Johor Bahru — creating a networked real estate ecosystem where growth in one city complements the others.

Conclusion: Ipoh’s Rise Signals a Broader Investment Opportunity

The RM6.25 billion Ipoh Sentral project is more than a transport hub — it’s a vision for Malaysia’s next wave of urban transformation. By creating over 20,000 jobs and attracting both domestic and international investment, it positions Perak as a dynamic new growth engine for the nation.

For investors and homebuyers, this development reinforces Malaysia’s status as a property market with depth and diversity — where cities like Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Penang each contribute to the country’s economic tapestry.

As Malaysia builds its future through smart, sustainable developments, the opportunities for property ownership have never been brighter.

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