JOHOR BARU: Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi aims to integrate Forest City into the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ) to boost its economy and revival.
"We anticipate a surge in Forest City economic activities in the near future with the initiatives the state government has planned for its revival."
He said the state government planned to breathe new life into Forest City by including the US$100 billion project by Chinese developer Country Garden in the JSSEZ.
He said having Forest City, which has Special Financial Zone (SFZ) status, be part of the JSSEZ would be a game changer with domino effects for Johor.
"It will increase cross-border labour activities and investment flows."
Forest City's SFZ status with tailored incentives and regulations will foster financial innovation and entrepreneurship, making it a global hub for finance and trade.
Onn Hafiz said one of the initiatives in the works is establishing the one-stop Iskandar Malaysia Facilitation Centre in Forest City.
The centre will serve as a vital link between government agencies, businesses and investors and will cut red tape.
"The centre will expedite decision-making and unlock the full potential of Forest City's economic opportunities," Onn Hafiz said.
Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has agreed to hold the Asean Tourism Forum between Jan 19 and 25 next year at Forest City.
This will showcase its potential as a premier destination for tourism and hospitality.
Onn Hafiz said promotion strategies, business package offerings and logistical preparations for international events were discussed at a recent meeting with Forest City representatives.
Forest City vice-president Syarul Izam Sarifudin said discussions were held with the Finance Ministry to realise the tax incentives under the SFZ.