4 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Dubai's MBS Global eyes Johor for tech, finance investment expansion
KUALA LUMPUR: Dubai-based MBS Global Holdings, which manages over US$14 billion in assets worldwide, has expressed strong interest in positioning Johor as its next strategic investment hub in Southeast Asia.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the state government held a high-level meeting with MBS Global on May 29, in Kuala Lumpur, where the firm outlined its investment appetite in key sectors such as digital technology, Islamic digital banking, green innovation and real estate.
"MBS Global's interest is a strong signal of Johor's rising profile among global institutional investors. We view this as a potential catalyst for high-impact investments that can generate quality jobs and spur inclusive economic growth," he said.
The firm is no stranger to ambitious ventures. Its recent US$8.8 billion investment to develop a blockchain-based financial hub in the Maldives is projected to create over 16,000 jobs by 2030.
Onn Hafiz said Johor's appeal has been further strengthened by the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) initiatives, which offer cross-border advantages and regional market access to international players.
"The Johor government is committed to turning investment into real benefits for the people, not just in figures, but in the form of job creation, technology transfer and sustainable economic development," he said.
MBS Global Holdings' potential entry aligns with Johor's strategy to attract future-driven industries and long-term capital. It is also in line with the state's economic blueprint.
