By Owen Lee
Photo Balqis Jazimah Zahari
IPOH: Perak must revitalise its entrepreneurial spirit and explore new economic potentials to avoid falling behind in the race to become a high-income, high-technology state by 2030.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang said this was vital to prevent a continued loss of human capital, especially skilled youth migrating to other states in search of better job opportunities.
“The MADANI government aims for Malaysia to achieve high-income and high-tech nation status by 2030.
“To realise this vision, we must foster inclusive innovation, empower local talent, and drive growth that benefits all, especially rural communities and marginalised groups,” he said during his keynote address at the Perak Ignite 2025 Entrepreneurial Summit held at SMJK Yuk Choy recently.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Tanjong Malim added that Perak has a real opportunity to leap forward if entrepreneurship is placed at the core of its economic growth strategy.
“Entrepreneurship can generate job opportunities and economic mobility, particularly among the B40 group, which forms a significant segment of the state’s population.
“It also drives innovation and competitiveness. A diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem makes the economy more resilient to future shocks,” he said.
Also, present at the event were Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) CEO Ir. Prof. Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Perak Chinese Assembly Hall (PCAH) president Dato’ Kwan Foh Kwai, and several prominent local business figures and emerging young entrepreneurs.
Meanwhile, Dato’ Kwan noted that Perak was once a thriving state and now is the time for all stakeholders to work together in restoring its past glory.
“At PCAH, we are eager to collaborate with both the state and federal governments to explore ways to uplift Perak and bring it back to its rightful standing,” he said.
The summit featured six-panel sessions covering topics such as talent development, digital transformation, challenges faced by young entrepreneurs, and Perak’s prospects in manufacturing and foreign investment.
