The Greater Kedah 2050

The Greater Kedah 2050 (Malay: Kedah Raya 2050), also known as The Greater Kedah 2050 vision (Malay: Wawasan Kedah Raya 2050), officially known as The Greater Kedah: Empowering Lives (Malay: Kedah Raya: Memperkasakan Kehidupan), is a long-term strategic development plan aimed at transforming the state of Kedah in Malaysia into a more industrialized, economically prosperous, and sustainable region by the year 2050. It envisions Kedah becoming a central economic hub in the northern region of Malaysia while maintaining its unique cultural, agricultural, and Malay–Islamic identity. It officially launched by the Menteri Besar of Kedah, Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor on 2021, and relaunched back in 2024.
The concept of Greater Kedah 2050 refers to a broader region that encompasses not only the state of Kedah but also its surrounding areas, including Langkawi, Kulim, Sungai Petani, Alor Setar and other districts/cities. The goal is to integrate these areas into a cohesive and strategically planned economic zone that can drive the future growth of the state. The Greater Kedah also will only use domestic resources to push the state to a better level. Muhammad Sanusi said that it is different when compared to The Greater Klang Valley or The Greater Penang which have been implemented for a long time.
In essence, the "Greater Kedah" would typically refer to the urbanized and developed areas within Kedah, as well as nearby regions with economic or infrastructural ties to the state. This could also be used in terms of urban planning or regional development to describe areas that are growing and forming a larger interconnected economic region.
Key components of the early Greater Kedah could include:
The Greater Kedah: Empowering Lives initiative is a key part of the vision put forth by Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, the Menteri Besar of Kedah. This initiative, officially launched in 2021, and relaunched in 2024, is designed to transform Kedah into a more developed and sustainable state by focusing on economic empowerment, inclusive development, and community well-being. It aligns with the broader Greater Kedah 2050 vision, which envisions the region's growth and transformation over the next few decades.
The concept of Greater Kedah from the vision of Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor are closely linked due to his role in shaping the state's development.
Kota Setar's biggest city, Alor Setar is the state capital of Kedah and serves as the central hub of the state’s economy, culture, and politics. It is one of the largest and most important cities in northern Malaysia.
Kuala Muda's biggest city, Sungai Petani is the second-largest city in Kedah and an important commercial and industrial center. It lies south of Alor Setar and plays a significant role in the state's economy.
Kulim is an important district in southern Kedah, near the border of Penang. It is rapidly industrializing and has seen significant growth in recent years.
Langkawi is an archipelago located in the Andaman Sea and is part of the state of Kedah. Known for its tourism industry, Langkawi is one of Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations.
Kubang Pasu is an important district located near the Thai border and has a mix of agricultural and industrial activities.
Padang Terap is a more rural district but is still considered part of Greater Kedah due to its proximity to Alor Setar and role in agriculture.
Baling is a district in the southeast of Kedah, which is part of the Greater Kedah region. While it is more rural, it has economic ties to the surrounding areas.
Pendang is a district located south of Alor Setar and serves as an agricultural area that contributes to the broader Kedah economy.
Yan is located in the southeastern part of Kedah and is part of the Greater Kedah region.
Bandar Baharu is a growing district located in the southern part of Kedah, near the border with Perak. It has seen gradual development but is still largely rural, with agriculture being the primary economic activity.
Sik is a predominantly rural district in Kedah, located in the northeastern part of the state. It is known for its natural landscapes, including forests, mountains, and waterfalls.
The Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP) is one of the most significant mega projects under the Greater Kedah 2050 plan. Located in Kulim, this park is a key player in Kedah’s vision to become a hub for high-tech industries such as electronics, biotechnology, clean energy, and precision engineering. The expansion of KHTP aims to attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) and increase the state’s technological capabilities. It will create thousands of job opportunities in high-tech fields, enhance R&D (research and development), and contribute significantly to Kedah’s GDP. The park focuses on industries such as semiconductors, electronics manufacturing, solar energy, and medical technology.
The Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) is an initiative to develop the northern states of Malaysia, including Kedah, Perlis, Penang, and Perak, into a robust economic zone. As part of the Greater Kedah 2050 plan, Kedah is positioned to benefit from this initiative, particularly through improved infrastructure, industrial parks, and logistical hubs. The project aims to stimulate regional development, improve interstate connectivity, and create economic growth through integrated infrastructure and enhanced trade between the northern states and the rest of Malaysia. NCER will focus on high-value sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. The project will involve the construction of new highways, rail links, and logistics hubs to improve regional connectivity and business operations.
Langkawi, a UNESCO Global Geopark, is a central component of Kedah’s tourism strategy. As part of Greater Kedah 2050, Langkawi will undergo significant development to enhance its status as a top-tier tourist destination, focusing on eco-tourism, luxury resorts, and sustainable tourism practices. The project aims to boost tourist arrivals, create job opportunities in hospitality and related industries, and maintain Langkawi’s environmental sustainability. Infrastructure improvements, including better transportation and public amenities, will enhance visitor experiences. The development will include luxury hotel projects, marina developments, nature reserves, and eco-friendly resorts designed to blend with the island’s natural beauty.
Both Sungai Petani and Alor Setar are key cities in Kedah and will undergo significant urban renewal and development under the Greater Kedah 2050 vision. These cities are expected to become modern commercial and industrial hubs, with a focus on improving infrastructure, public services, and business opportunities. The aim is to transform these urban centers into economic powerhouses in the region, improving quality of life for residents, attracting investment, and creating a better business environment. This will involve modernizing transport networks, upgrading public housing, and expanding commercial zones. This project in an effort to upgrading of public transport systems, affordable housing projects, and new shopping complexes and business districts. Additionally, the expansion of the Alor Setar and Sungai Petani industrial zones will promote local and regional economic growth.
The development of the Kulim International Airport (KXP) is another significant mega project aligned with the Greater Kedah 2050 vision. The airport will serve as a key gateway to the state, boosting tourism, trade, and regional connectivity. The airport aims to serve both domestic and international flights, enhancing Kedah’s logistical capabilities and facilitating the movement of goods and people. The project is intended to boost the local economy by promoting tourism, trade, and investment. The airport will be equipped with modern facilities and designed to accommodate the growing demand for air travel to Kedah and the surrounding region.
The development of an Integrated Industrial Park in Kedah aims to consolidate various industrial zones and create a unified hub for manufacturing, logistics, and technology companies. The project seeks to foster economic growth by attracting both local and foreign investors into sectors such as high-tech manufacturing, renewable energy, and logistics. The park will include state-of-the-art infrastructure, business incubators, and facilities tailored to industries such as electronics, automotive, and pharmaceuticals.
Under the Greater Kedah 2050 vision, the state plans to develop smart cities in key urban areas, especially in Alor Setar and Sungai Petani, to improve urban living and enhance government services. These smart cities will integrate digital technologies to improve public services, transportation, energy usage, and waste management. The project aims to make Kedah’s urban centers more efficient, sustainable, and livable. The development of IoT (Internet of Things) systems for managing traffic, smart grids for energy distribution, and digital services for residents and businesses.