UMWD unwavering in its commitment to deliver world-class eco-industrial park
Malaysia's manufacturing sector is making bold strides in adopting advanced strategies that significantly enhance operational efficiency, streamline supply chains and optimise processes. For industries considering relocation to industrial parks, the decision extends far beyond mere geography. It is about harnessing a comprehensive suite of advantages that can catapult their businesses to new heights. Consequently, there is a growing emphasis on adopting robust, innovative approaches to upgrading infrastructure. This not only boosts productivity but also strengthens the industry's resilience against economic fluctuations and environmental challenges, making these strategies paramount for sustainable growth.
Acknowledging this trend, UMW Development Sdn Bhd (UMWD) has strategically leveraged its vast and prime land assets to unlock significant growth potential, advancing its vision of establishing a green-rated, cargo-oriented development (COD) in the region. By capitalising on the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) realignment and a range of state-of-the-art facilities, UMWD has greatly enhanced the value of its 861-acre High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Park in Serendah. This forward-thinking strategy positions UMWD at the forefront of sustainable and innovative industrial development, driving long-term value creation and regional economic growth.
As an experienced player in industrial park development, HVM Park is poised for a promising future driven by industry players and market opportunities. Moreover, the re-alignment of the ECRL towards the northern route via Gombak and Serendah towards Port Klang presents a lucrative opportunity for HVM Park. According to property and development director Eric Chew Kar Kean, this strategic infrastructure development could significantly enhance the value of HVM Park, providing a substantial upside potential for the group.
“We acquired this land in the early 90s. The management decided to relocate from Shah Alam to Serendah with UMW Aerospace serving as a main catalyst in 2015 until they signed a contract with Rolls Royce which further propelled the value of HVM Park,” said Chew.
Incorporating international benchmarks
With the collaboration between UMW Aerospace and Rolls Royce, UMWD decided to take it a step further to create a new standard of industrial park. “The team went ahead to study many international industrial parks to do benchmarking from the UK to Singapore and Hong Kong. From then, we engaged one of the international planners to come up with a blueprint, which we are still following but fine-tuning to further improve as we go. From day one, we planned to be sustainable,” he said, adding that the HVM Park attracted manufacturers from other industries like automotive, solar and construction.
In 2022, UMWD sold 140 acres to LONGi Malaysia Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Shanghai Stock Exchange-listed LONGi, which is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of monocrystalline silicon wafers, for RM304.92mil. It later sold another 22.22-acre parcel of land in Serendah for RM52.27mil to an automotive player. This transaction not only boosted UMWD's financial position but also aligned with its broader strategies to support the expansion of the automotive industry.
UMWD’s seamless service
Serendah’s reputation as an automotive hub augurs well for HVM Park, as many automotive-related industries relocated to the area, enhancing synergies among the multi-national and local companies residing within the industrial park, Chew noted.
Moreover, he said UMWD continues to drive the GreenRE-certified industrial park in Selangor forward. The award-winning development offers comprehensive facilities, including multi-tiered security, business support units and readily available infrastructure. Designated as a COD with the upcoming ECRL, HVM Park, as a logistics hub, is designed to meet the needs of modern industrial tenants, said Chew. The park also features a proposed centralised workers’ quarters for 6,000 workers, emphasising convenience, efficiency and people-centred solutions, said Chew.
“HVM Park combines extensive infrastructure with holistic social connectivity through its green spaces, offering a competitive edge by integrating urban and natural environments,” he said. Dedicated to leading the charge in environmentally conscious industrial development, the HVM Park integrates eco-conscious practices at every level. The park employs eco-friendly materials, water-efficient systems and advanced rainwater harvesting techniques to minimise environmental impact. Certified Green Township precincts are enhanced by initiatives such as energy-efficient LED lighting, solar-powered walkways and comprehensive recycling facilities, all contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. Developed under the Low Carbon City Framework zone, the park aspires to cut carbon emissions.
Adding to its commitment, the park features a sprawling 100-acre central park designed to support a balanced lifestyle. This green oasis includes jogging tracks, outdoor gyms and vibrant community spaces, encouraging a healthy and greener way of living. Chew highlights these elements as pivotal in creating a work environment that drives productivity, making the park a model for future industrial developments.
Future outlook and strategic focus
Chew said UMWD offers comprehensive support through its Business Support Unit, assisting clients with everything from statutory approvals to fast-tracking the approval process. He added that the team ensures efficient processes and strong government relationships, helping businesses establish a presence in Southeast Asia. With the completion of the Southern Zone and the Northern Zone set for 2026, Precinct 5B is now open for sale to industry players who are seeking synergistic advantages that HVM Park can provide.
Chew also revealed that UMWD is in talks with the local council to provide the Smart Selangor Bus service into the park. “We are enhancing the connectivity from the railway station to the commercial centre and other parts of the park,” said Chew, adding that the company welcomes more domestic and foreign investments towards the industrial park as a result of the improved connectivity.
These enhancements demonstrate the support of both UMWD and the government for HVM Park and the broader industry, paving the way for a brighter future for the industrial park, he concluded. For more information, visit https://umwhvmpark.com.my/
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