QL Resources To Develop RM1.3 Bln Food Manufacturing Hub In Perak

BAGAN DATUK, Jan 25 (Bernama) -- Agro-based food manufacturer QL Resources Bhd is creating a food manufacturing hub, QL Innofood Park, through a strategic investment of RM1.3 billion.

Its executive chairman, Dr Chia Song Kun, said the project, led by its wholly owned subsidiary QL Foods Sdn Bhd, represents a new phase of expansion in regional food manufacturing, extending beyond its surimi-based portfolio to include protein-based food products from various other sources, such as soy, flour, poultry, and others.

“This expansion is in line with the growing demand from both domestic and international markets,” he said at the QL Innofood Park groundbreaking ceremony in Hutan Melintang here today.

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The ceremony was officiated by the Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also Bagan Datuk Member of Parliament.

Chia said the industrial park will be developed in phases over 10 years, comprising 13 production plants and supporting infrastructure, including utilities, warehouse logistics and employee facilities.

“For the initial phase of development, approximately RM300 million will be invested to develop the supporting infrastructure.

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“Subsequently, RM100 million will also be invested annually over a period of 10 years to construct the production plants,” he said.

Chia added that once the project is fully completed, it is expected to increase QL Foods’ annual production capacity to 180,000 tonnes.

He said the additional capacity of 130,000 tonnes represents an increase of approximately 2.5 times the existing capacity of 50,000 tonnes.

The design and planning of this project are based on sustainability concepts and green initiatives, including the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, rainwater harvesting systems, a solid waste sorting centre, and biomass boilers, as well as the use of energy-efficient machinery. 

“These initiatives support the transition towards a low-carbon footprint.

“The factories are designed with modernisation, Industry 4.0 readiness and operational efficiency in mind, incorporating Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) centralised cold rooms and smart warehouses for packaging materials, as well as data-based monitoring,” he said.

Once the entire project is fully completed, it is expected to create 3,000 new job opportunities for the local community.

Chia said that the high-impact investment is also expected to enhance the socio-economic status of the people of Perak, particularly in the Bagan Datuk district, while continuing to contribute to the national agenda of industrialisation and food security.

-- BERNAMA