Rawang, Selangor
Rawang is a prominent town situated in the Gombak District, part of the state of Selangor, Malaysia. Located approximately 25 kilometers northwest of Kuala Lumpur, Rawang has experienced significant growth and transformation from its origins as a tin mining town in the 19th century to a thriving residential and industrial hub today.
Historical Background
The town of Rawang was established during the tin mining boom, a period that was pivotal for the economic development of Malaysia. The tin mining industry in Rawang developed concurrently with the larger tin mines in the state of Perak. This era was marked by the Selangor Civil War in the 1860s and 1870s, during which Yap Ah Loy's gangs, allied with Tengku Kudin, played a crucial role in repelling Syed Mashor's troops away from Kuala Lumpur, pushing them further north.
Economic Development
With the tin mining industry laying the foundation, Rawang continued to grow economically throughout the late 20th century. In the late 1980s and 1990s, Malaysia's industrialization drive under the Fifth Malaysia Plan (RMK-5) spurred the development of light industrial areas in Rawang. This included the establishment of industrial zones at Sungai Dua and Rawang Perdana, which generated employment and attracted a diverse population, including foreign migrant workers.
The transformation of Rawang's landscape was also marked by significant infrastructure projects. For instance, the Templer Park Country Club, located outside Rawang, opened in August 1990. It was developed by Kyowa Kanko Kaihatsu (M) Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of the Kyowa Group of Japan, featuring floodlit fairways. Additionally, the collaboration between IGB and the Selangor State Development Corporation led to the construction of a 400-hectare residential-cum-industrial area in Rawang, costing RM 169 million.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Rawang is well-connected through a network of roads and highways. The Rawang Bypass, also known as Federal Route 37, is a federally-funded divided highway that provides an essential link between Rawang and Serendah. Another significant road, the Kuala Lumpur–Rawang Highway, facilitates travel to and from the capital city. Moreover, the Selangor State Route B27 connects Rawang to Bestari Jaya, formerly known as Batang Berjuntai.
Modern Developments
In recent years, Rawang has continued to evolve with the establishment of new facilities and industries. The Perodua Axia, a popular Malaysian car model, was the first to debut from Perodua's all-new second factory in Rawang. This milestone underscores the town's ongoing relevance as a center for automotive manufacturing.