-min.png)
The Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre (IMFC) in Johor is poised to become operational this year, presenting an enticing prospect to attract new investors into the state. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, also the Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, expressed confidence that this one-stop facility, resulting from a collaboration between the state government and the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry, would be a transformative force and a catalyst for Johor's economic development.
Following discussions in a recent meeting with Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Onn Hafiz shared the exciting news of Johor establishing an investment facilitation center. Notably, this collaborative effort involving both federal and state agencies marks the first dedicated center of its kind in Johor. The absence of such collaboration was noted with the Kuala Lumpur IMFC, making the Johor IMFC a unique initiative set to be ready this year, aligning with the goals announced during the creation of the Johor Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
Onn Hafiz conveyed these developments during a press conference after a working visit to the Main Intake Substation (PMU) Kota Masai and the Layang Dam in Pasir Gudang. The JS-SEZ memorandum of understanding signed by Singapore and Malaysia in January outlined various initiatives contributing to the establishment of the economic zone, setting the stage for collaborative economic endeavours.
Highlighting another instrumental factor in attracting investors, Onn Hafiz discussed the success of the Johor Fast Lane concept in reducing bureaucratic hurdles in business dealings. In 2023 alone, Johor managed to draw 30 investors across four local councils through the Johor Fast Lane initiative. Originating with the Kulai Municipal Council (MPKu), this concept gained traction and expanded to local councils such as Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB), Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP), Pasir Gudang City Council (MBPG), and MPKu, signalling its widespread adoption.
Addressing concerns about essential resources, Onn Hafiz reassured investors about Johor's robust infrastructure. The state boasts total electricity installed capacity of 10,476 megawatts (Mw), exceeding the maximum required capacity of 2,804 Mw by an impressive 75%. This surplus, beneficial to various economic sectors, including industrial areas, underscores Johor's preparedness for sustained growth. Additionally, the state's sole water operator, Ranhill SAJ, affirmed that industrial water needs are sufficient for the short and medium term.
Encouraging industrial players and investors, Onn Hafiz emphasized Johor as a prime location for their investments. The collective efforts to establish the Johor IMFC, coupled with initiatives like the Johor Fast Lane, position the state as an attractive destination for businesses seeking a conducive and efficient environment for growth. As the IMFC takes shape, the economic landscape of Johor is set to witness positive transformations, fostering increased investment and sustainable development.
Evon Anak Jerim is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
The User Content (as defined on Newswav Terms of Use) above including the views expressed and media (pictures, videos, citations etc) were submitted & posted by the author. Newswav is solely an aggregation platform that hosts the User Content. If you have any questions about the content, copyright or other issues of the work, please contact Newswav.