New Ikea mega-store shows level of confidence in Penang, says Guan Eng

Swedish home furnishings giant Ikea's RM650 million store at Batu Kawan in Penang which opened today highlights the global company's level of confidence in Malaysia, Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said.

Lim said this development was an example of the "4P Partnership" which is a collaboration between the public, private, people and professionals.

"It is my hope that our success in Batu Kawan can be replicated elsewhere in Malaysia so that we can raise the quality and quantum of our economic growth to be enjoyed by all Malaysians," Lim said in his speech at the launch of the mammoth store.

Lim said the newest Ikea store had been built with sustainability in mind.

"This building is among others equipped with solar panels, rainwater capture systems and energy recovery equipment that will help Ikea manage its energy and water consumption while reducing waste," said the former Penang chief minister.

"This proves that sustainability can contribute positively to making a profitable business decision," added the Bagan MP.

Accompanying Lim at the launch were Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Christian Roejkjaer, managing director of Ikea Southeast Asia,

Swedish Ambassador to Malaysia Dag Juhlin-Dannfelt and Aspen Group founder Nazir Ariff.

The store is a joint venture between the Aspen Group and Ikano Group and sits on a 245-acre site at Batu Kawan.

Lim noted that the effort to bring Ikea to Penang took nearly five years and much hard work was put into the project by all quarters.

He assured the company of a level playing field pointing out the venture has created more than 300 new jobs in retailing and logistics for Penangites as well as Kedahans.

"With nearly a million households residing just within an hour's drive from the store, the opening of Ikea Batu Kawan will open up a new avenue for private consumption which will contribute positively to the regional economy," Lim said.

Lim admitted that the store had a special place in his heart.

"Before becoming the finance minister, I worked closely with the various partners who are present here today to ensure that everything would be right on track for the store’s 2019 opening," he said.

"After months of anticipation, I am thrilled to be here and witness the first Ikea store in Penang finally opening its doors.

"The store is also the first to be opened in northern Malaysia, " he added. - Mkini