Latest news with #JSSEZ
Independent Singapore
2 days ago
- Business
- Independent Singapore
A new era for Johor-Singapore ties: Economic zone sparks investor surge and fresh cooperation
JOHOR BAHRU: Singaporeans keeping an eye on regional opportunities may want to pay closer attention to the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), which is quickly shaping up to be a key driver of cross-border growth and investment. According to a post on the Invest Johor Facebook page, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced that over 70 investors are actively eyeing the JS-SEZ, following a productive meeting with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The session focused on deepening ties between Johor and Singapore, with mutual support for a vision of long-term economic collaboration — a timely move amid rising global interest in Southeast Asia's economic hubs. Momentum growing as Johor courts Singapore-linked firms The momentum behind the JS-SEZ is clear: Johor has now received over 577 investment enquiries, with 11 coming from companies referred by Singapore agencies, according to Invest Johor. This shows that Singapore's private sector and government-linked investors are increasingly viewing Johor not just as a neighbour, but as a strategic partner. See also Singapore's debt servicing ratio is far lesser than Malaysia's Singaporeans involved in sectors such as energy, logistics, and technology may find new openings as Johor positions itself as a launchpad for bilateral business. PM Wong also welcomed Johor's progress and expressed that he is looking forward to the deepening collaboration in these key sectors, which is an encouraging signal for firms operating in both markets. Tuas-Iskandar RTS2 proposal points to better connectivity In one of the most striking proposals, Datuk Onn Hafiz mooted a second Rapid Transit System (RTS2) link between Tuas and Iskandar Puteri, expanding on the current RTS project connecting Woodlands and Bukit Chagar. This second link, if realised, could greatly enhance accessibility for Singaporeans looking to do business, work, or even live in Johor. For entrepreneurs, cross-border workers, and investors alike, the proposed RTS2 could mean faster commutes and smoother logistics, enhancing the appeal of setting up operations just across the Causeway. Read related: ETS expansion to Johor Bahru strengthens Malaysia–Singapore rail links See also ICA warns of heavy congestion along Causeway Johor's booming economy adds to investor confidence Johor isn't just talking big because the state is delivering on its growth promises. According to the same post, the state recorded RM30.1 billion (S$9.13 billion) in approved investments and achieved 6.4% economic growth in Q1 2025, the highest in Malaysia. This economic performance has inspired growing interest from investors, especially after regional supply chain shifts and digital transformation. The vision is also consistent with Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim's ambitions to build closer economic links with Singapore; this development seeks to foster mutual prosperity between the two states. Why this matters for Singapore The JS-SEZ is not just about boosting the economy because it's also a sign of growing trust between Singapore and Malaysia. This could lead to better regional stability, shared growth, and improved transport and infrastructure links. Whether you're a startup founder looking to expand, a logistics firm seeking cross-border access, or a simple commuter hoping for more seamless travel, the developments unfolding in Johor are directly relevant. See also Limited reopening of Malaysia-Singapore border from Aug 17 Ultimately, this project is likely the beginning of a closer partnership that could shape Singapore-Malaysia ties for the long term. Read also: RM445,800 in fines: What Singapore drivers need to know about Malaysia's VEP crackdown
Independent Singapore
01-08-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Johor proposes second RTS link to Tuas ahead of 2027 Johor Bahru–Woodlands line launch
Photo: Facebook/Onn Hafiz Ghazi JOHOR BAHRU: Johor has proposed a second Rapid Transit System (RTS2) link connecting Iskandar Puteri to Tuas as part of efforts to boost cross-border cooperation with Singapore. The proposal was among several raised by Johor Chief Minister Onn Hafiz Ghazi during a meeting with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at The Istana on Thursday (July 31), ahead of the planned 2027 launch of the Johor Bahru–Woodlands RTS Link. According to The Star , citing the Facebook post of the Johor Chief Minister, he said, 'In line with the royal decree of Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, I presented several strategic proposals, including a plan to connect Tuas and Iskandar Puteri via an RTS2 system.' Mr Ghazi also shared that they discussed the progress of the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) implementation, including the establishment of the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre Johor (IMFC-J), which now serves as the main facilitator for investment support and policy coordination. He added that PM Wong welcomed the JS-SEZ progress and shared positive views on the potential for broader cooperation in energy, regional logistics, and stronger Johor-Singapore ties. According to him, PM Wong also appreciated Johor's efforts in maintaining a fair and competitive labour market and was open to reviewing the proposals constructively. Johor has received over 577 investment enquiries under the JS-SEZ to date, with 70 investors showing serious interest, including 11 referred directly by Singapore's investment agencies, said Mr Ghazi. He also shared that Johor recorded RM30.1 billion (S$9.12 billion) in investments in the first quarter of the year, along with a 6.4% gross domestic product (GDP) growth—the highest among all Malaysian states. 'Overall, the discussions are very positive, and I am confident that this meeting opens a new chapter in the Johor-Singapore bilateral relationship,' he said. /TISG Read also: First JB-SG RTS Link train begins off-site systems integration testing at SRTC () => { const trigger = if ('IntersectionObserver' in window && trigger) { const observer = new IntersectionObserver((entries, observer) => { => { if ( { lazyLoader(); // You should define lazyLoader() elsewhere or inline here // Run once } }); }, { rootMargin: '800px', threshold: 0.1 }); } else { // Fallback setTimeout(lazyLoader, 3000); } });
The Star
31-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
95% of 13MP was developed during my tenure as economy minister, says Rafizi
PETALING JAYA: About 95% of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) was developed during my time as economy minister, says Rafizi Ramli. In a statement issued on Thursday (July 31) while the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was tabling the 13MP, Rafizi thanked the staff of the Economy Ministry for having drafted the long-term plan for Malaysia. 'I have yet to read every word on every page of the 13MP document that was presented today. 'However, based on the executive summary I have read so far, I am pleased that almost 95% of what was developed throughout the process - up until I resigned - has been retained in 13MP. 'All major reforms involving changes to the education system, economic structure and focus on new areas such as the ageing nation agenda and development of the third sector have been preserved. 'Additionally, the economic restructuring that was initiated earlier - ranging from NETR, KL20, JSSEZ, 'Made by Malaysia', the shift to a 'consumption powerhouse'-based economy, CCUS and initiatives that were developed but not yet announced, such as the Special Tourism Investment Zone were all included,' said Rafizi, who resigned on May 28. He said that even initiatives that were questioned during his tenure were retained. 'The implementation of the 'anti-red tape Act' and the law banning the 'Ali Baba' business practice - have all been retained. 'I extend my thanks and congratulations to everyone at the Economy Ministry, who worked tirelessly over 20 months to produce this document. 'Their task became even more challenging due to last-minute speculation about a possible reshuffle. 'Thankfully, that speculation turned out to be mere political noise, meaning the leadership of the ministry succeeded in ensuring that the country's long-term planning would not be disrupted by political turbulence,' said Rafizi. On July 31, Anwar tabled the five-year 13MP, which covered the period from 2026 to 2030 and provided a strategic framework for Malaysia's economic, social and environmental priorities. He stated that a total of RM611bil would be required to ensure the success of 13MP, covering the whole nation, including Sabah and Sarawak.
Malay Mail
27-07-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Anwar lauds Singapore partnership over JS-SEZ boost, says Malaysia must leverage on its strategic location
MUAR, July 27 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to strengthening the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and boosting Johor's development as a strategic national gateway. The Prime Minister said establishing the JS-SEZ will accelerate state investment flows and forge strong synergy in industrial development, workforce, and technology between the two countries. 'I called Singapore's Prime Minister at the time to negotiate. With Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, we discussed it during a Cabinet meeting and brought nearly half of the Cabinet down to Johor — something that has never happened before,' he said in his speech at the 2025 National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang launching ceremony at Dataran Tanjung Emas here today. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the JS-SEZ has already begun to show encouraging results by attracting investments worth billions of ringgit in strategic sectors. He added that Malaysia cannot afford to fall behind in regional investment competition and must leverage Johor's strategic position, especially as it borders a developed country like Singapore. Anwar also expressed his appreciation to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, who is also the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim, for His Majesty's support in elevating Johor's potential as a key driver of the national economy. Johor recorded RM30.1 billion worth of approved investments in the first quarter of 2025, the highest in Malaysia. In January, Singapore and Malaysia signed the JS-SEZ agreement during the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders' Retreat to enhance economic cooperation and attract investment. The JS-SEZ is a mega development project involving the Iskandar Development Region, Desaru, Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri, Tanjung Pelepas, Tanjung Bin, Pasir Gudang, Senai, Skudai, and Sedenak. The economic zone aims to attract 100 projects over a decade, among other goals. — Bernama
Malay Mail
27-07-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Anwar credits Singapore partnership for JS-SEZ boost, says Malaysia must leverage on its strategic location
MUAR, July 27 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to strengthening the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and boosting Johor's development as a strategic national gateway. The Prime Minister said establishing the JS-SEZ will accelerate state investment flows and forge strong synergy in industrial development, workforce, and technology between the two countries. 'I called Singapore's Prime Minister at the time to negotiate. With Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, we discussed it during a Cabinet meeting and brought nearly half of the Cabinet down to Johor — something that has never happened before,' he said in his speech at the 2025 National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang launching ceremony at Dataran Tanjung Emas here today. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the JS-SEZ has already begun to show encouraging results by attracting investments worth billions of ringgit in strategic sectors. He added that Malaysia cannot afford to fall behind in regional investment competition and must leverage Johor's strategic position, especially as it borders a developed country like Singapore. Anwar also expressed his appreciation to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, who is also the Sultan of Johor, Sultan Ibrahim, for His Majesty's support in elevating Johor's potential as a key driver of the national economy. Johor recorded RM30.1 billion worth of approved investments in the first quarter of 2025, the highest in Malaysia. In January, Singapore and Malaysia signed the JS-SEZ agreement during the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders' Retreat to enhance economic cooperation and attract investment. The JS-SEZ is a mega development project involving the Iskandar Development Region, Desaru, Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri, Tanjung Pelepas, Tanjung Bin, Pasir Gudang, Senai, Skudai, and Sedenak. The economic zone aims to attract 100 projects over a decade, among other goals. — Bernama
