Al-Sultan Abdullah said the factory, operated by Ketech Asia Sdn Bhd and capable of producing 60 million rounds of ammunition annually for various calibres, could also enhance the country’s profile.

“I want to congratulate and commend the factory operator, while reminding the company to provide the best facilities for its workers who, in turn, must also give their best.

“The ammunition produced here can also be exported, bringing prestige to the country, especially Pahang and Lipis, on the international stage,” he said when officiating the factory’s opening today, Bernama reported.

Present were home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, deputy inspector-general of police Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and Pahang’s agriculture, agro-based industry, biotechnology and education committee chairman Soffi Abd Razak.

Earlier, Al-Sultan Abdullah spent about 30 minutes touring the 40.4ha factory and was briefed by its management.

Its operations general manager, AM Maharis Abdul Wahab, said the factory, which produces 9mm and 5.56mm ammunition, expects to start production for the domestic market by the middle of this year.

He said Brunei, Singapore, Cambodia and several Middle East countries have shown an interest in buying its products.

He also said the company has created job opportunities for more than 100 local residents and is expected to hire another 100 once it operates around the clock next year.