Written by Irhamy Ahmad, Founder and Managing Director of Irhamy ValuersInternational

Malaysia’s industrial parks have played a critical role in transforming the country into a manufacturing and export-driven economy, with Selangor, Johor, and Pulau Pinang leading the charge. However, many older industrial zones—such as Shah Alam and Klang in Selangor, or Pasir Gudang in Johor—are beginning to show signs of age, facing challenges like outdated infrastructure, digital gaps, and environmental inefficiencies. In response, state-led initiatives like the Selangor Industrial Master Plan and public-private partnerships in Johor are pushing for modern upgrades, green technology, and smarter logistics. Meanwhile, new industrial zones like Elmina Business Park and developments under Iskandar Malaysia are showcasing what the next generation of industrial growth could look like.

Pulau Pinang’s Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone remains a key hub for electronics and medical devices, backed by a skilled workforce and innovation-led economy. Yet, limited space and aging infrastructure are prompting shifts towards new development on the mainland, notably in Batu Kawan, with smart-city infrastructure being built from the ground up. As Malaysia embraces Industry 4.0, the national New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) is supporting the transformation toward smart, sustainable industrial ecosystems. Future competitiveness will depend on integrating 5G, IoT, energy efficiency, and talent development—ensuring the country’s industrial base remains globally relevant in the decades to come.