In a significant move that underscores Malaysia’s commitment to industrial growth and sustainability, the NCT Group of Companies has announced the development of a 127-acre commercial and industrial land into an industrial park at the Delapan Special Border Economic Zone (SBEZ) in Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah. This ambitious project follows a joint development agreement (JDA) signed with Northern Gateway Group of Companies, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ministry of Finance Inc, as revealed in a press statement on May 15.
A Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Development
Datuk Seri Yap Ngan Choy, founder and group managing director of NCT Group, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership with Northern Gateway. He highlighted that this collaboration marks a monumental leap forward for NCT Group, leveraging their extensive experience from the NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) development in Selangor to the Delapan project in Kedah.
“This collaboration opens up numerous opportunities to utilise clean electrification and solar energy solutions that set new standards for eco-friendly industrial zones, as evident with NSIP. We are excited to unlock the immense potential of this region and to replicate the success from NSIP Selangor across Malaysia, while prioritising Environmental, Social and Governance principles. This agreement represents a significant milestone for us, and we are honoured for the trust and confidence to undertake this important development as we play an active role towards shaping regional economies and communities,” Yap added.
Project Overview and Development Plan
The project, which will take six years to complete, will see NCT Group handling the end-to-end project development. This includes design conceptualisation, physical development, ecosystem development, and marketing. Northern Gateway will oversee the development of primary infrastructure and utilities, joint marketing efforts, and regulatory approvals.
The industrial park is set to target high-growth industries such as semiconductor, electrical and electronic (E&E), and smart logistics. This strategic focus is expected to attract top-tier investors and enhance Malaysia’s cross-border trade capabilities.
NCT Group’s Expertise in Sustainable Industrial Development
This will be NCT Group’s second industrial park development project. Currently, the group is developing NSIP, located in the Integrated Development Region in South Selangor (IDRISS) within the districts of Kuala Langat and Sepang. NCT Group’s success with NSIP, which prioritises eco-friendly solutions and sustainable development, sets a strong precedent for the Delapan project.
“NCT Group’s highly specialised expertise in sustainable industrial development is key to maximising Delapan’s potential. Their innovative approach will undoubtedly elevate the economic zone, attracting top-tier investors and enhancing our cross-border trade capabilities. We are proud to partner with them in this momentous development for the region, and we are confident that their capabilities will further enhance the value creation of the SBEZ ecosystem, contributing to positive economic impact to the country,” said Northern Gateway director Datuk Paduka Ammar Shaikh Mahmood Naim.
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
The development of the Delapan Special Border Economic Zone is poised to significantly impact Malaysia’s economic landscape. By targeting key industries such as semiconductor and E&E, the industrial park will not only create job opportunities but also position Malaysia as a competitive player in these high-tech sectors. The focus on smart logistics further underscores the project’s alignment with global trends towards digitalisation and automation in supply chains.
Moreover, the emphasis on clean electrification and solar energy solutions reflects a broader commitment to sustainability, aligning with global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. This approach not only enhances the project’s appeal to environmentally conscious investors but also ensures long-term viability and resilience.
Conclusion: A Transformative Development for Malaysia
The NCT Group’s new industrial park in Kedah represents a transformative development for Malaysia, promising significant economic benefits and setting new standards for sustainable industrial zones. With the combined expertise of NCT Group and Northern Gateway, the project is well-positioned to unlock the immense potential of the Delapan region, attract top-tier investors, and contribute to Malaysia’s economic growth.
As the project progresses over the next six years, stakeholders can look forward to a dynamic and eco-friendly industrial hub that will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Malaysia’s industrial landscape. For investors, businesses, and the local community, the Delapan Special Border Economic Zone offers a wealth of opportunities for growth and development.
