In an interview with FMT, Hasan spoke about the future of investments in Selangor, amidst challenging economic times and an uncertain political landscape.
“We actually outperformed ourselves last year compared to 2014 as the highest contributor to Malaysia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), contributing 22.6 per cent of the nation’s total GDP.”
Hasan explained that despite the Selangor and Federal Government being on opposite sides of the political divide, it did not in any way affect Invest Selangor’s efforts.
“In fact, we have been receiving good support from the relevant federal government agencies such as the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), BioEconomy Corporation and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) in making Selangor a better place for investments.”
Hasan also said Invest Selangor had good relations with the business community, embassies, local authorities and other relevant stakeholders.
“At the end of the day, if Selangor is successful, indirectly, the nation will also prosper with us,” he said, adding that the 22.6 per cent contribution by Selangor to the nation’s GDP in 2015, was testimony of the important role the state played in contributing to Malaysia’s wealth.
Hasan also said that despite the state’s impressive performance, Invest Selangor would not slow down in seeking growth and was now focusing on five core clusters.
These clusters he said were electrical and electronics, food and beverage manufacturing, life sciences, machinery and equipment as well as transport equipment.
He said Invest Selangor was paying particular attention to certain areas within the five clusters, particularly aerospace, biotech, e-commerce and the halal sector.
“For this purpose, the Selangor Information Technology and E-Commerce Council (Sitec), the Selangor Bio Council, Selangor Aerospace Council and Halal International Council were set up to take these industries to the next level.”
“Their responsibilities include identifying the appropriate ecosystems and supply chains while brainstorming blueprints and road maps.”
Hasan said Invest Selangor was also tapping into the potential of the younger generation through its e-commerce initiatives, including the setting up of the 11,000-sq ft Selangor Digital Creative Centre (SDCC) in Shah Alam.
He said the SDCC served as a platform for start-up companies registered in the state to market their products online by providing co-working spaces, incubators, meeting rooms and more.
“E-commerce is consistent with the trends and interests of the younger generation, and Invest Selangor is helping by providing free training in doing business online.”
Hasan said Selangor’s prospects remained bright despite the challenges, thanks to the state’s skilled workforce and developed infrastructure.
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