SINGAPORE: Johor has outlined its vision for cross-border economic integration with Singapore.
The Johor Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs, and Human Resources Committee chairman Lee Ting Han, who represented Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi at the inaugural annual investment summit in Singapore, said Johor's economic framework is built on robust infrastructure, industrial diversity, talent development, and a business-friendly regulatory environment
The summit is co-organised by Johor Corporation, Affin Bank, and DBS Bank.
Lee said the state's investment strategies are designed to attract global investors by leveraging Johor's geographical advantage and strategic infrastructure.
Major infrastructure projects, including the upcoming Johor-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, are pivotal to this vision.
The RTS, set to streamline cross-border transit, underscores Johor's commitment to enhancing connectivity and supporting regional trade and investment, he said.
Lee also highlighted Johor's thriving manufacturing sector, which contributes over 30 per cent to the state's GDP, along with its growth in logistics, advanced manufacturing, and technology.
"These sectors, combined with initiatives like EduCity and Johor-Skills under the Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC), position Johor as a key talent hub in Southeast Asia, attracting both international education and local vocational training," he said.
A core component of Johor's future strategy is the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), a joint initiative expected to be formalised in the first quarter of next year.
The JS-SEZ will streamline regulations, connect markets, and focus on high-impact industries, including digital technology and green logistics.
Positioned as a model for Asean integration, the JS-SEZ embodies Johor and Singapore's shared objective to build a resilient, interconnected economic ecosystem.
"Johor's recent economic data reflects its resilience, with GDP reaching RM150 billion this year. A substantial portion of Johor's economy stems from its manufacturing and services sectors, bolstering Malaysia's economic profile," he added.
The state has also committed to sustainable, innovation-driven growth, aligning its goals with Malaysia's National Investment Aspirations (NIA) through digital transformation and green energy initiatives.
The summit concluded with Lee inviting investors to join Johor's forward-looking strategy, which aims to make Southeast Asia a global centre for growth and innovation through shared prosperity and economic integration.