Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corp Sdn Bhd (Bioeconomy Corp) has entered into a collaboration with France-based Cosmetics Valley to create a RM500 million cluster model in Langkawi, Kedah, named Langkawi Cosmetic Island.

The herbal, cosmetics and perfumery cluster development will span 300 ha and will be based in Ulu Melaka. Expected to be developed in three stages, the model is said to house facilities for activities such as packaging, manufacturing, formulation, product development and production of high-value materials in plantations.

Said to be constructed over a five year period, Bioeconomy Corp Chief Executive Officer Datuk Dr Mohd Nazlee Kamal told a press conference, “The first phase of this development will kick off sometime in December.”

He continued, “By taking this opportunity to be involved in the growing bio-cosmeceuticals and wellness industries, Malaysia could be a major player in contributing to the global cosnetics market.”

With an emphasis on bio-based technology and products, bio-cosmeceuticals and wellness, the Bioeconomy Community Development Programme (BCDP) – as part of LCI’s action plan – will create around 5824 jobs at the development itself, while a further 2599 jobs will be given to contract farmers.

The collaboration will be the first time in Aesean that a cluster of this kind has been fostered between Malaysia and France, and is said to be create an international network for business development between the two countries, with a strong focus on R&D and innovation.