Perlis agribio zone targets infrastructure completion by 2027
The RM80 million project aims to increase Malaysia’s grain corn output and cut reliance on imported animal feed.
Critical infrastructure for the RM80 million NCER Agribio Economic Zone (NAEZ) in Perlis is expected to be completed progressively by 2027, according to the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA). The project aims to become a modern agrofood hub by 2030.
NCIA chief executive Datuk Mohamad Haris Kader Sultan said the phased development spans more than 2,000 hectares in Chuping, near Padang Besar. Work is currently focused on irrigation, drainage, farm roads and supporting facilities.
By 2028, NAEZ is expected to deliver annual grain corn output of between 15,000 and 17,000 metric tonnes, Mohamad Haris said. He put potential yearly savings from reduced dependence on imported animal feed at up to RM25 million by 2028.
The zone aims to contribute 2.5 per cent of Malaysia’s targeted 80,000 hectares for grain corn cultivation by 2028. More than 2,000 hectares have been allocated to production.
NCIA and FGV Integrated Farming Holdings Sdn Bhd are jointly developing the project. Mohamad Haris said it could support the use of mechanisation, automation, smart irrigation, data analytics and precision agriculture, while attracting investment and creating jobs.
Approved under the 12th Malaysia Plan and continued under the 13MP, NAEZ was also highlighted in the 2027 Budget. Mohamad Haris said links with the Chuping Valley Industrial Area and the Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Free Trade Zone - Perlis Inland Clearance Depot could connect agrofood production with industrial and logistics activities.
