KUALA LUMPUR, 15th MAY 2024 – Perak is ready to plan for a brighter future with the findings from the Lumut Maritime Industrial City (LuMIC) feasibility study, which assesses the region's ability to become an essential hub for Malaysia's maritime industrial sector. The development proposal, expected to be signed after the feasibility study is completed in early 2025, holds the promise of significant economic growth and social development for the region. The LuMIC study, conducted by the Perak State Development Corporation (PKNPk) and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI), aims to assess the attractiveness of Perak and Malaysia in the port and maritime sector. The LuMIC project is expected to attract significant foreign direct investment (FDI) and local investment, further generating regional economic growth and social development.

The successful completion of the first phase feasibility study with a grant worth EUR1.9 million (RM9.5 million) from the European Union (EU) in 2023 is part of a joint effort between PKNPk and PoABI to assess Perak's prospects in the investment and maritime sectors, and increase the level of connectivity between Europe and Asia. PoABI presented the report to key stakeholders, including representatives from the Federal Ministry, the Perak state government, and local and international industry participants in the maritime, port, logistics and industrial sectors.

Among the guests of honour who were also present included His Excellency Mr Peter Van Acker, Ambassador of Belgium to Malaysia, His Excellency Dr. Ivan Velimir Starcevic, Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to Malaysia, His Excellency Mr. Juraj Koudelka, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Malaysia, Datuk Redza Rafiq Abdul Razak, Chief Executive of PKNPk and Mr Kristof Waterschoot, Managing Director of PoABI, Mr Daniel Hachez, Advisor to the Minister of the European Union (EU), Head of Cooperation for Malaysia and also Mr Oliver Roche, Chairman of Eurocham Malaysia.