Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah said that the establishment of the Johor-Singapore Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) reflects the complementary advantages of Malaysia and Singapore, as well as a shared vision to drive economic progress.
He emphasized that the Johor-Singapore Economic Zone embodies the efforts made over the years by Malaysia and Singapore to coordinate policies, streamline infrastructure, and create an environment conducive to investment growth.
In an interview with Bloomberg's chief Southeast Asia correspondent Haslinda, Amir said: “I think it's important to recognize that this didn't happen overnight. Both countries have been committed to establishing coordination because coordination is the most important, agreeing that it is possible.
“Therefore, understanding the complexities that make it work, and what we can do to facilitate, and facilitation can be things agreed upon for the priority investments that need to be made. Everything we do for achieving coordination is laying the groundwork for the next stage to be easier.”
Amir highlighted Malaysia's good track record in talent development and cited the development of the electrical and electronic (E&E) industry since the 1970s as an example.
“Over the years, we have enhanced vocational training and higher education, creating a strong talent pipeline. Now, we are trying to replicate this model in the Johor-Singapore Economic Zone, and we are offering incentives, so if you look at the incentives we provide for knowledge workers, it is a lower tax rate to attract knowledge workers to Malaysia, thereby promoting growth.
The strategic zoning of the Johor-Singapore Economic Zone focuses on areas such as logistics, manufacturing, digital services, leisure, and tourism, and has developed tailored incentives to attract targeted investments, build ecosystems, and maximize economic impact.
Amir said that Malaysia is enhancing its infrastructure, including improving road and rail connectivity, and the ongoing Rapid Transit System (RTS) project will support local rapid development and integration.