Invest KL to attract S'pore-based MNCs to Greater KL

SINGAPORE: Invest KL is set to attract Singapore-based multinational companies (MNCs) and the republic's firms to the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley region.

"There has been some interest and we are in active discussions," said its chief executive officer, Zainal Amanshah,
Invest KL is a lead government agency to attract, facilitate and service large foreign multinational investments into the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley (KV) area.

"Our vision is to promote Greater KL as a global business hub and a dynamic investment destination. We aim to attract companies that are regionally and globally focused to create world class businesses, and generate career opportunities," he said.

Zainal was a member of the delegation accompanying the Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed, on an official visit to the city-state on Tuesday Aug 24.

He said Invest KL will also be the contact point for all investors on behalf of the government and government statutory bodies. "Although, Invest KL started its operations in June this year, we have a strong pool of prospects in place and will make the necessary announcements when deals are finalised," he added.

When asked as to what sort of investors Invest KL is looking for, Zainal said:"Invest KL is not focusing on any country specific or industry specific company as a potential client.

"We welcome all large MNCs who wish to launch into Asia from Malaysia. This could be through regional headquarter operations, regional distribution/procurement centers and centralised support services."

He also said that Invest KL was actively promoting the Greater KL as one of the most attractive metropolis cities in Asia for living and working. He said the Greater KL National Key Economic Areas (NKEA) has identified nine entry point projects (EPPs) for revitalising Greater KL.

Among  the projects that will garner strength are those in infrastructure. "However there are opportunities for growth in all industries as we work together for the Greater KL vision in 2020.This vision is for Greater KL in 2020, to be among the top 20 cities in terms of economic growth and as per the Economist Intelligence Unit's Livability Index," he added.-- Bernama