JOHOR BARU: The decision to revert Johor's weekend to Saturday and Sunday from Jan 1, will benefit the proposed Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and foster a more business-friendly environment.
Iskandar Investment Berhad's president and CEO, Datuk Idzham Mohd Hashim, said the weekend realignment will facilitate smoother business operations and strengthen cross-border trade between Johor and Singapore.
Welcoming the announcement by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, Idzham said the weekend change was a positive step for Johor's growth as a more investor- and business-friendly destination.
"With the upcoming JS-SEZ, the alignment will make business operations more seamless, enhance cross-border trade and foster a more competitive economic environment."
He added that the change, set to take effect at the start of 2025, will also create a more conducive ecosystem for investment and economic growth, positioning Johor as a key regional hub for global business opportunities.
The JS-SEZ is expected to further integrate the economies of Johor and Singapore, which is seen as a critical driver of the state's economic future, with enhanced connectivity and cooperation between the two regions, he told the New Straits Times, when contacted today.
He added the weekend shift brings Johor in line with Singapore's work week, streamlining operations for companies with cross-border dealings and improving workforce productivity.
Idzham said stakeholders, including business owners and industry leaders, believe the shift reinforces Johor's commitment to create an investor-friendly environment, which is essential to attract new businesses and sustain the state's economic growth.
The shift is also expected to improve the region's competitiveness as Johor looks to solidify its role as a major economic hub in Southeast Asia, he added.
Meanwhile, Johor's Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee chairman Lee Ting Han said employers must ensure that sufficient time is allotted to Muslim employees to perform Friday prayers when the state's weekend shift takes effect on Jan 1 or face strict action.
"Discussions are underway with the Labour Department and industry players to ensure effective implementation of the directive.
He added strict action will be taken against non-compliant employers.