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MALAYSIA’S Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is set to make its formal debut on March 30 in Johor Bahru, with authorities highlighting the initiative’s potential to transform the state’s economic landscape and deliver tangible benefits for its residents.
Economic Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the decision to host the launch in Johor Bahru followed discussions with his Singaporean counterpart and Johor’s Menteri Besar, Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
“We agreed that the launch should be held in Johor Bahru so that the people of Johor can experience its impact directly,” Akmal Nasrullah said at the Johor 2026 Dialogue held earlier today.
The event was also attended by Onn Hafiz and Johor’s Economic and Investment Adviser, Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad.
The minister explained that the JS-SEZ action plan will include investment incentives, operational frameworks, and strategies designed not only to attract foreign and domestic investors but also to enhance productivity and generate high-quality economic returns for both the public and national economy.
“The JS-SEZ aims for a gross domestic product contribution of RM260 billion by 2030 and is expected to transform Johor’s economic landscape comprehensively,” he said.
He added that the zone will emphasise a transition to an advanced, innovation-driven river corridor economy, while creating more than 20,000 high-skilled employment opportunities for local talent.
Akmal Nasrullah also stressed the importance of translating strategic plans into concrete action, in line with the implementation of Malaysia’s 13th Plan (Rancangan Malaysia Ke-13, RMK13).
“Therefore, all ministries, agencies, state governments, and stakeholders must be mobilised with discipline, speed, commitment, and accountability to ensure measurable outcomes are achieved,” he said, underlining the urgency of coordinated execution across all levels of government and industry.
The launch of the JS-SEZ masterplan marks a major milestone in Malaysia’s efforts to deepen bilateral economic cooperation with Singapore while fostering innovation, investment, and sustainable growth in Johor. - February 9, 2026
