
22/04/2025
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Johor is solidifying its role as a regional economic driver with nearly RM99 billion in ongoing and planned investments under the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
In a bold move to future-proof the regional economy, the state unveiled several strategic proposals at the inaugural JS-SEZ Business and Investment Forum.
Menteri Besar Johor, YAB Dato Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced that RM48.5 billion in investments have been approved in 2024, with an additional RM27.4 billion recorded in the first quarter of 2025 reflecting strong investor confidence.
βWe are serious, agile, and ready,β he told the 1,000-strong audience, which included Singaporeβs Deputy Prime Minister, Gan Kim Yong.
Among the key announcements were two game-changing initiatives: the Johor Regulatory Sandbox and the ASEAN Industrial Park.
The Regulatory Sandbox will serve as a testing ground for fintech, smart logistics, green tech, and autonomous innovations, under a more flexible regulatory framework.
Meanwhile, the ASEAN Industrial Park will target strategic investments from RCEP member countries, focusing on advanced manufacturing, the digital economy, and green technology.
Incentives will include tax relief, talent mobility, and temporary easing of overseas fund transfer regulations.
βThese aren't just ambitious ideas; they are grounded, strategic moves to position JS-SEZ as the regionβs most competitive and attractive investment destination,β YAB Dato Onn Hafiz stressed.
To support this investment momentum, Johor also launched the Malaysia Investment Facilitation Centre β Johor (IMFC-J) and the Johor Super Lane (JSL). These reforms have already halved investment processing times from 24 months to just 12.
Companies such as Princeton Digital Group, Wiwynn Technology, Olam/Markono, and Mayora are among the 42 high-impact projects currently benefiting from fast-tracked facilitation.
YAB Dato Onn Hafiz also lauded Singaporeβs consistent commitment to the JS-SEZ, quoting Prime Minister Lawrence Wongβs vision of Johor and Singapore not as separate hubs, but as a βcomplementary ecosystem.β
In a lighter moment, he jokingly suggested Singapore poach Malaysiaβs Investment Minister Tengku Zafrul, calling him βcapable, handsome, hardworking, and smart.β
Yet, shifting to a more serious tone, he warned against political instability, citing Malaysiaβs own challenges between 2018 and 2022. He emphasized the need for consistent policies on both sides of the Causeway.
Addressing regional tensions and tariff issues, he argued that such challenges should be seen as catalysts, not roadblocks.
βLet us move forward with one vision, two nations, and shared prosperity,β he concluded.
Johor is taking bold and practical steps to become a leading regional hub, attracting billions in investment and fostering closer ties with Singapore through innovation, policy reform, and strategic collaboration.