The people of the four opposition-led states known as SG4 must share a common vision to fully harness their wealth and newly identified resources, says former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad.
Mahathir said leaders in Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu and Perlis had become increasingly aware of their states’ strengths and development potential since the SG4 initiative was introduced, particularly in sectors beyond traditional economic activities.
The SG4 adviser said Kedah, traditionally known for padi cultivation and production, was positioning itself as a manufacturing hub, while Kelantan was seeking to develop its agricultural sector into a commercial industry rather than focusing solely on self-sufficiency.
Terengganu, meanwhile, was exploring downstream petroleum activities instead of relying exclusively on royalties, while Perlis aimed to expand cross-border trade.
Describing SG4 as a “sleeping giant”, Mahathir said the people remained the states’ greatest asset in unlocking their full potential.
“If the people in these states do not share the same dreams, then whatever wealth that can be potentially exploited will not amount to much,” he said at the SG4 Business & Economic Forum 2026.
His speech was delivered by his son, Mokhzani, as the former prime minister had yet to fully recover from health problems.
Mahathir also rejected the perception that people in the four states lacked business acumen, noting that many successful Malay entrepreneurs in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and the west coast states originated from SG4.
Islamic values and business ethics
Mahathir also highlighted attitudes among some segments of the Malay community that he said could hinder progress, including a tendency to seek shortcuts and quick gains at the expense of honesty and trustworthiness.
“That has indeed been the bane of the Malay Muslims in the country, and focus is always turned on the SG4 states because the majority living there are Malay Muslims,” he said.
He said Malays had the potential to become successful traders and entrepreneurs, linking this to the values emphasised in Islam.
“After all, Islam always reminds Muslims of the gravity of punishment for those cheating and stealing, and that honesty provides among the highest merits,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of cleanliness, particularly for businesses in the food and beverage industry.
“Even for that matter, for the benefit of those in the food and beverage industry, cleanliness is the essence of a Muslim life,” he said.
