Latest news with #Johor-based
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
JCorp actively redefining Johor's economic architecture, according to its chief
JOHOR BAHRU: Johor Corporation (JCorp) is actively redefining Johor's economic architecture beyond traditional sectors by shaping the next wave of industry platforms, from advanced manufacturing and food tech to digital infrastructure, circular economy systems and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled agriculture. President and chief executive Datuk Syed Mohamed Syed Ibrahim said that through these, the state government-owned company is building industries and shaping a responsible, future-ready economy. "JCorp is focused on execution-building ecosystems, enabling capital flows and driving long-term growth aligned with Maju Johor 2030." "We are not waiting for growth to happen, we are shaping its direction through bold investments, system-level design and long-term execution," he told Bernama in an interview recently. He said as Johor accelerates into a new economic chapter shaped by global megatrends and catalysed by the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), JCorp is strategically placed to function as an enabler of growth and collaboration. "We are leveraging the JS-SEZ to position Johor as a high-value innovation corridor. With Singapore on our doorstep, Johor has the advantage of proximity and potential, making it ideal for next-generation industries such as electrical and electronics, digital economy, green economy, halal industry, food technology, agritech and renewable energy. "Our single most strategic initiative within the JS-SEZ, Ibrahim Technopolis (IBTEC), is poised to generate strong multiplier effects, particularly in job creation and business opportunities," he said. He said IBTEC is designed to support infrastructure development, innovation clusters and platforms in line with sustainability principles and the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030. Syed Mohamed said JCorp is also working closely with agencies such as the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and Invest Johor to streamline investor facilitation and enable regulatory alignment. He said JS-SEZ provided a foundation for inclusive industrialisation and JCorp is prioritising initiatives that create entry points for local talent and businesses within this framework while also attracting high-impact global players. "JCorp sees both tracks as essential. We are investing in the growth of Johor-based companies to scale regionally while building the infrastructure and conditions to attract high-impact global players," he said. He said JCorp's role is to develop industrial ecosystems that allow Johor-based companies to scale by connecting them to international markets as well as enabling infrastructure and collaborative platforms. Elaborating further, he said these environments are designed not just to host businesses but to help them grow through co-location, shared services and innovation-driven partnerships. "At the same time, we are curating environments where foreign investors don't simply extract value but contribute meaningfully to the local economy through technology transfer, supplier integration and talent development "Foreign partnerships matter but scaling local champions is how Johor wins," he said. Syed Mohamed said JCorp is also actively participating in talent development to ensure an ample supply of workforce. "Critically, we are ensuring that talent development keeps pace. Johor Skills Development Centre and our partnership with the Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC) are building a robust talent pipeline through targeted technical education and cross-border industry immersion programmes. He said Johor Skills is delivering modular programmes focused on sectors such as advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and data infrastructure. "In collaboration with Republic Polytechnic and the Institute of Technical Education Singapore, we aim to upskill or reskill 10,000 workers per year by 2027 to support sector-specific workforce readiness in the JS-SEZ," he said. JS-SEZ is a joint initiative by Malaysia and Singapore to create a dynamic and competitive economic hub in Johor by leveraging synergies between both countries with the aim of attracting investment, enhancing connectivity and fostering inclusive growth through tax incentives, infrastructure development and streamlined business processes.
The Star
20-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Astaka-Kimlun JV begins construction of RM800mil Arden skyscraper in Johor Baru
From left: Astaka Kimlun Sdn Bhd director Abdul Hakim Kamaludin, Astaka Holdings Limited CEO and Director Allen Khong, Johor Bahru City Council mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad, Kimlun Corp Bhd CEO and executive director Pang Khang Hau and Kimlun executive director Sim Tian Liang. KUALA LUMPUR: Johor-based property developer Astaka Holdings Limited, together with its joint venture (JV) partner Kimlun Corp Bhd , has commenced construction of Arden — a premium serviced residence under Phase 3 of One Bukit Senyum, the group's flagship development. In a statement, Astaka said the 68-storey Arden is envisioned as a prominent international landmark within the newly announced Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). Standing 260 metres above ground, it will be the second tallest building in Johor Bahru. Notably, Astaka also developed Johor Bahru's tallest building — The Astaka — completed in 2018 as part of Phase 1 of the One Bukit Senyum development. Arden is a freehold development with a gross development value (GDV) of RM800mil, comprising 618 units of premium serviced residences. Unit sizes range from 797 to 1,700 square feet, with prices estimated between RM1,300 and RM1,500 per square foot. Targeted for completion by 2030, the project reflects the group's vision of delivering an iconic and prestigious development that will reshape Johor Bahru's skyline. Astaka and its JV partner have appointed GDP Architects Sdn Bhd — the firm behind landmark projects such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, TRX Residence, EQ Hotel Kuala Lumpur, and The Astaka — as the project's architect. Astaka executive director and chief executive officer Allen Khong said that following the successful official launch of Arden in March 2025, the company was thrilled to commence construction of the landmark development. 'We are pleased to share this milestone with Kimlun, our longstanding partner on projects including Menara MBJB and Aliva Mount Austin. I am proud to highlight that this project brings together two renowned, Johor-based real estate players dedicated to world-class developments that deliver exceptional value to residents and investors,' he said. Meanwhile, Kimlun chief executive officer Pang Khang Hau said: 'Kimlun is proud to partner with Astaka once again as a JV partner and the main contractor on another transformative project that will redefine Johor Bahru's skyline. 'Our proven track record in delivering high-quality engineering and construction solutions aligns perfectly with the vision for Arden and One Bukit Senyum. Together, we look forward to delivering an iconic project that will be the city's newest landmark.'
New Straits Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Astaka and Kimlun break ground on Arden, Johor's newest landmark within JS-SEZ
KUALA LUMPUR: Johor-based developer Astaka Holdings Ltd, in partnership with Kimlun Corporation Bhd, has officially begun construction of Arden — a premium serviced residence that marks the first component of Phase 3 of its flagship integrated development, One Bukit Senyum. Strategically located within the newly established Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), Arden is set to become a defining feature of Johor Bahru's skyline. The 68-storey tower will soar to 260 metres, making it the second tallest building in Johor Bahru, after The Astaka, also developed by Astaka Holdings. With a gross development value (GDV) of RM800 million, Arden is a freehold project comprising 618 upscale serviced residences with built-ups ranging from 797 to 1,700 square feet. Units are priced between RM1,300 and RM1,500 per square foot, and completion is targeted for 2030. Astaka has appointed GDP Architects Sdn Bhd — the firm behind landmark developments such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, TRX Residence, EQ Hotel Kuala Lumpur, and The Astaka — to lead the architectural design of Arden. Designed for modern, urban living, Arden will feature more than 50 thoughtfully curated facilities, including sky dining, a KTV lounge, family-oriented amenities, co-working spaces, and an indoor golf simulator. A key highlight is its Hotel Stay Management model, offering property owners a fully integrated solution for short-term leasing. This includes professional unit management, housekeeping services, and dedicated guest lobbies — a concept that has already attracted strong interest from overseas buyers seeking both lifestyle flexibility and investment returns. A groundbreaking ceremony was held on May 19, officiated by Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) Mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad, to commemorate the start of construction. "Arden is set to be a remarkable addition to Johor Bahru's skyline. It will not just be a skyscraper, but also a symbol of our rapid growth and commitment to becoming a world-class city," said Mohd Haffiz. "As one of the major projects in Johor Bahru since the formation of the JS-SEZ, Arden stands as a testament to the confidence investors have in our city's potential. We look forward to witnessing this landmark project accelerate Johor Bahru's transformation into a vibrant and prosperous city." Astaka Holdings executive director and chief executive officer (CEO), Allen Khong described Arden as a milestone collaboration with Kimlun, following successful joint ventures such as Menara MBJB and Aliva Mount Austin. "I am proud to highlight that this project brings together two renowned, Johor-based real estate players dedicated to world-class developments that deliver exceptional value to residents and investors." Khong extend his appreciation to the Johor State Government and MBJB for their continued support. Kimlun CEO Pang Khang Hau added that the company is proud to partner with Astaka once again as a JV partner and the main contractor on another transformative project that will redefine Johor Bahru's skyline. Launched in 2014, One Bukit Senyum is an ambitious 11.85-acre freehold integrated development, envisioned as Johor Bahru's future Central Business District (CBD). Its location — just 800 metres from the CIQ complex and 600 metres from the future Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link — makes it a prime beneficiary of cross-border infrastructure enhancements and deepening Johor-Singapore economic ties. The development's momentum is further supported by the JS-SEZ agreement, signed in early 2024, and progress on the RTS Link, both of which are expected to significantly boost trade, connectivity, and investment flows between the two regions. Phase 1, The Astaka, was completed in 2018, comprising two towers standing 65 and 70 storeys high. At 1,020 feet above sea level, it remains the tallest residential building in Southeast Asia, with buyers hailing from over 15 countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, China, Germany, Japan, and Finland. Phase 2, the 15-storey Grade A Menara MBJB, was completed a year ahead of schedule in January 2020 and now houses the Johor Bahru City Council's headquarters. Phase 3, currently in progress, will be developed in stages starting with Arden, followed by a lifestyle shopping mall and a five-star hotel, reinforcing One Bukit Senyum's role as a transformative anchor of Johor Bahru's urban and economic evolution.
Business Times
06-05-2025
- Business
- Business Times
Malaysia's HI Mobility banks on Johor-Singapore boom to drive growth
[KUALA LUMPUR] Malaysian bus operator HI Mobility – a company that went public two months ago – is accelerating its push to get more people on buses, especially along the lucrative and often congested Malaysia-Singapore corridor. Chief executive officer Lim Chern Chuen views public transport as a crucial solution to issues in Malaysia, Singapore and other parts of South-east Asia: traffic gridlock, rising fuel costs, and the increasing need for affordable and sustainable mobility. Fresh off a RM116 million (S$35.3 million) initial public offering in March, the Johor-based bus operator is scaling up operations across Johor Bahru, Melaka, Klang Valley and Singapore as it capitalises on renewed commuter demand. For the financial year ending Jan 31, 2025, the company reported a 31 per cent jump in net profit to RM43.8 million, while revenue climbed 22 per cent to RM77.9 million. As of Monday (May 5), HI Mobility's market capitalisation stood at RM650 million, with its shares trading at RM1.30. 'Rising living costs, subsidy reforms and traffic congestion are driving more people toward public transport,' Lim told The Business Times in an interview at Kuala Lumpur. A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU Friday, 8.30 am Asean Business Business insights centering on South-east Asia's fast-growing economies. Sign Up Sign Up HI Mobility, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Handal Indah, currently manages a fleet of 638 buses across 124 routes in Malaysia and Singapore, and these numbers are set to grow. Betting big on cross-border traffic More than 300,000 people cross the Johor-Singapore Causeway daily, making it one of the busiest land crossings in the world. PHOTO: BT FILE Central to HI Mobility's growth strategy is its commanding presence on the Causeway, which is one of the world's busiest border crossings. The company operates 150 licensed buses that ferry thousands of commuters and tourists daily between Johor Bahru and Singapore. 'Volume has clearly picked up. On long weekends like Good Friday, we see traffic rise by at least 30 per cent compared to a normal day,' said Lim. 'The trend of individuals arriving in Johor a day before long weekends and extending their stay to explore various locations signals a shift in travel behaviour that favours mass transit.' In 2024, HI Mobility transported nearly 16 million passengers across the Causeway, contributing RM63.5 million to group revenue or 53 per cent of its total top line. That number is projected to climb to RM122.2 million in 2025, comprising nearly 60 per cent of revenue, according to the company's estimates. But Lim says the strategy isn't just about scale. HI Mobility is evolving into a mobility solutions provider – developing better connectivity, tourist-friendly routes, and last-mile links that tie into broader regional travel trends. 'There's a growing ecosystem in Johor built around tourist demand, such as medical and healthcare, leisure and entertainment, retail, and F&B. We want to make these places more accessible,' he said. The company is collaborating with local councils to improve traffic flow and add new pick-up and drop-off points. The upcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link, due to open in 2026, will further reshape cross-border dynamics, he added. With an estimated 350,000 to 500,000 people crossing the border daily, HI Mobility sees opportunity in feeding passengers into and out of the RTS system. 'With congestion reduced by RTS, we can redeploy buses more efficiently and increase frequencies. It helps us serve even more destinations,' said Lim. Regional vision While Johor-Singapore remains its stronghold, HI Mobility is open to potential opportunities for new cross-border services, such as Thailand and Brunei. 'But the volume has to make sense,' Lim cautioned. 'What makes Johor-Singapore so compelling is the sheer scale of movement and business activity.' Still, once the company enters a new city or region, Lim said growth often comes organically through last-mile partnerships and B2B deals. Domestic expansion HI Mobility chief executive officer Lim Chern Chuen said: "Rising living costs, subsidy reforms and traffic congestion are driving more people toward public transport.' HI MOBILITY While the Johor-Singapore corridor remains HI Mobility's cash cow for now, the company is deepening its footprint in Malaysia through government partnerships. In April, it secured a RM134.9 million contract under a scheme to operate intra-city buses in Johor Bahru. The two-year deal, awarded by Malaysia's Land Public Transport Agency, will further entrench its operations in Johor Bahru. 'It's about improving reliability and cutting wait times,' said Lim. 'If people know the bus will arrive on time and offer a comfortable ride, they are more likely to use it regularly.' Beyond public contracts, HI Mobility is working with malls, business parks and local councils to design custom shuttle services to offer solutions in areas underserved by conventional routes. 'One of our biggest successes started as a private shuttle for Singaporean shoppers going to KSL Mall (in Johor Bahru),' Lim said, noting that the service has become so popular that it has been integrated into the main network. These B2B partnerships give HI Mobility faster rollouts and more flexibility than traditional route tenders. It also opens the door to broader mobility solutions, including charter services and corporate fleets, said Lim. HI Mobility is also eyeing adjacent business lines such as fleet maintenance, tech integration, and predictive analytics, especially as the take-up rate for electric vehicles (EVs) increases. Accelerating the EV shift Another major investment area for HI Mobility is fleet electrification. The company has placed orders for 55 new buses, including 10 EVs. While EVs require higher upfront investments, Lim said the long-term cost savings from lower fuel and maintenance expenses make them smart bets. 'The move is in line with Malaysia's sustainability goals. By starting early, it allows us to build expertise, lower infrastructure costs and future-proof our operations,' he said. Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap sets ambitious targets for EV adoption in public transport, aiming for 15 per cent of total industry volume by 2030 and 80 per cent by 2050. 'It's no longer just about driving a bus. You need to manage charging times, forecast electricity rates and automate maintenance,' said Lim. To further enhance operational efficiency and ensure sustainable operations, the company's internal tech division is prioritising data integration, real-time monitoring, and operational optimisation. These tools, he added, may be packaged and offered to other operators, positioning HI Mobility not only as a transit provider but as a mobility tech firm too. 'Public transport is no longer a backup plan. It's becoming the backbone of modern cities, and we want to be at the heart of that transformation,' said Lim.
Malay Mail
30-04-2025
- Health
- Malay Mail
Pulai MP Suhaizan Kayat admitted to ICU over high fever, low oxygen levels but condition stable
JOHOR BARU, April 30 — Pulai MP Suhaizan Kayat is receiving treatment at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Columbia Hospital in Iskandar Puteri here due to a high body temperature and low oxygen levels. Suhaizan's personal assistant Mohamad Nizam Junait said the Johor parliamentarian is currently conscious and his condition has improved this morning. 'YB Suhaizan's condition is currently stable and improving. He is still being closely monitored in the ICU and will undergo another Computed Tomography (CT) scan today. 'However, any visits by non-family members are not permitted while he is still in the ICU,' he said in a brief update to the media this morning. The 51-year-old Johor Parti Amanah Negara vice-chairman was admitted to the private hospital following a high fever at 11pm last night. Suhaizan, a known Johor-based political activist, is also the former state legislative assembly Speaker. He managed to win the Pulai parliamentary by-election in September 9, 2023 after obtaining 48,283 votes, defeating Perikatan Nasional (PN) candidate Zulkifli Jaafar and Independent candidate Samsudin Mohamad Fauzi. The by-election was held following the death of the seat's incumbent Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, who was also the former Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister on July 23, 2023.
