BUTTERWORTH: The Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) drew private investments worth RM8.51 billion in the first six months of this year.

Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) Chief Executive Officer Datuk Redza Rafiq Abdul Razak said the investments are in the three main sectors of agriculture, manufacturing and tourism.

"In line with the 10th Malaysia Plan, NCIA has raised the involvement of the private sector to catalyze the nation's economic growth, besides enhancing the existing economic relations including with foreign investors," he told reporters after the presentation of Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) skill competency certificates here today.

The ceremony was officiated by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop.

In 2011, NCER drew RM9.91 billion in investments, up from the RM7.48 billion between 2008 and 2010.

Redza Rafiq said a total of 9,467 jobs and businesses were created in NCER between January and June this year.

"More jobs will be offered from now to December, as we believe we can achieve this year's target of RM12 billion in private investments," he said.


 - Bernama