Huntsman Corp, a global manufacturer and marketer of differentiated chemical products, plans to invest RM275 million to modernise and upgrade its titanium dioxide manufacturing operations in Kemaman, Terengganu.

The investment includes the introduction of new energy-efficient technology which would contribute towards a zero-waste business model.

The company sees growth potentials for both their business and the country due to the strong infrastructure, backing of technological advancement and the vast talent pool.

The investment was an additional allocation to the initial RM1.4 billion invested when the plant was set up in 1992, said Huntsman's Textile Effects Division president, Paul Hulme.

Ministry of International Trade and Industry's secretary-general, Datuk Dr Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria officiated the opening of the company's RM7 million Malaysian office -- Global Business Centre.

Rebecca said that Huntsman's interest in expanding and exploring investment opportunities in Malaysia was a strong testament to Malaysia's robust infrastructure, which was comparable to other developed nations in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia is one of the most technologically-developed countries in the region with infrastructure that is designed to serve international business community and ideal for multinationals looking to set up global hubs.