The Northern Corridor Regional Development Master Plan to be formulated and implemented by Sime Darby to further develop the northern states (Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Perak) and consolidate the ties between them, is not only highly commendable, but long overdue, Above all, it offers hope to the rural communities for a better quality of life which was hitherto negligible.

Sime Darby is therefore to be congratulated for taking this 'bottom-top' approach to development. Indeed, based on this experience, many more industries in the corporate sector should start making plans for a similar involvement on a regular basis. Moreover, it also offers the opportunity for diversification as well. For instance, Sime Darby could link up some of its projects with its proposed merger with Golden Hope Plantations and the Guthrie Group.

This 'bottom-top' strategy to be adopted from the very beginning will make it possible for the people to have a stake in the development by involving themselves from Day One in the decision- making process towards meeting their socio-economic needs and achieving their other aspirations.

It is therefore crucial for the planners to undertake sample socio-economic surveys to assess the development potential from time to time and to prepare an updated data base from which other related proposals can be devised. Such surveys are absolutely essential and invaluable for realistic and holistic people-oriented development especially on a long-term basis.

Human resource development will, therefore, be the most important and challenging dimension for the entire plan and will invariably affect the extent to which its goals and objectives can be successfully realised.

Sime Darby, being from the corporate sector (unlike government agencies) has the real potential to attract talents from within and outside the region (irrespective of race and ethnic identities) and also to develop and nurture a new generation of highly-qualified and well-trained Malaysians, especially among women and youth.