Johor presses Putrajaya to fast-track JS-SEZ infrastructure before delays erode its competitive edge

Johor's Menteri Besar, Dato' Onn Hafiz Ghazi, has urged federal authorities to expedite strategic infrastructure projects for the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), warning that stalled projects could hinder the zone's investment potential and benefit to Johoreans. The call was made during a meeting with Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.

Dato' Onn Hafiz emphasized the need for streamlined processes and quick issue resolution to accelerate project implementation and deliver benefits to Johor residents. He stressed that infrastructure, not just a supporting element, but a determining factor in the JS-SEZ's competitiveness. The Menteri Besar listed infrastructure needs encompassing roads, public transport, utilities, and connectivity required to match the zone's ambitions, and without which the investment pipeline cannot be fully absorbed or operationalized.

The meeting also covered Johor's broader priorities under the 13th Malaysia Plan, including roads, public transport, housing, healthcare, education, security, coastal management, and water resources. The JS-SEZ Masterplan and Investment Blueprint, expected to launch in December, is expected to outline the zone's broader development roadmap.

The zone aims to contribute RM260 billion to Johor's GDP by 2030 and create over 20,000 high-skilled jobs.