KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 22 — The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) has become a hot topic among industry players across Asia.
One Belt One Road Chamber of Commerce (OBORCC) president Datuk Seri Tan Thian Lai said this is evident as several companies from China and the Middle East have expressed their interest in learning more about the mega project.
“During my recent working visits to Shanghai, China, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), several companies involved in infrastructure, shipping, and technology shared their views that the JS-SEZ is a golden opportunity to expand their businesses and investments.
“These investors see JS-SEZ as a unique and sustainable economic zone, capable of transforming the investment landscape in Southeast Asia,” he told Bernama.
Earlier this month, Singapore and Malaysia signed the JS-SEZ agreement during the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat to enhance economic cooperation and attract investments.
JS-SEZ is expected to play a critical role in driving growth and creating jobs this year, contributing an estimated US$26 billion (RM117 billion) to Malaysia's gross domestic product (GDP) and creating 100,000 high-skilled jobs.
The mega-development project encompasses areas such as the Iskandar Development, Desaru, Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri, Tanjung Pelepas, Tanjung Bin, Pasir Gudang, Senai, Skudai, and Sedenak.
Tan highlighted that Malaysia and Singapore’s political stability and clear economic policies are key attractions for investors.
Additionally, he noted that JS-SEZ’s strategic location along major international trade routes offers a distinct advantage, enabling investors to access Asean and global markets.
“I also foresee JS-SEZ emerging as a hub for rapid technological and innovation development in Southeast Asia, on par with other developed nations.
“With these advantages, JS-SEZ has the potential to become a successful model of a modern special economic zone, driven by the unique synergy between two countries that differ in size, resources, and economic strengths but complement each other,” he added.
— Bernama
