SINGAPORE: Institutes of higher learning in the Island Republic are working with their counterparts in Malaysia to train people on the necessary skills needed in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), says a Singaporean minister.
Minister of State for Trade and Industry and National Development Alvin Tan said that skills and talent development were one of the key ingredients needed for the success of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
"For example, our Singapore Polytechnic is working with the Johor Skills Development Council and other institutes in Johor to ensure that workers will have the skills to take on these jobs.
"We want to have a strong value proposition for Johor and Singapore in terms of people, infrastructure and businesses," he said during the official signing ceremony and grand unveiling of Ascott Coronation Square Johor Baru.
He said that the JS-SEZ was important because it was a value proposition for others outside to have a location to invest.
Tan pointed out that Singapore's strengths was as a global hub of research, development and finance, while Johor's strengths lay in its growing talent and resources.
"This is complementary and a win-win.
"We need to put in all the ingredients to make it happen," he said, adding that one key announcement was the Ascott signing, while the Rapid Transit System (RTS) was also an important ingredient.
Meanwhile, Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, in his speech, said that the unveiling of Ascott Coronation Square Johor Baru was a proud moment for the state as it was a significant step towards becoming a dynamic, future-ready and internationally connected state.
“Coronation Square is not just another development. It is a catalyst project of the Ibrahim International Business District (IIBD), which forms a vital component of the broader JS-SEZ,” he said.
He stressed that the IIBD vision was to create a vibrant new business and financial hub for the region and Coronation Square stands as a centrepiece of this iconic city masterplan.
Onn said that while Johor continues to prioritise affordable housing, rural development and community upliftment, the state also acknowledges the importance of high-impact, investment-grade developments.
“Projects like Coronation Square attract international investors, tourists and talents. All of whom contribute to a more diverse and resilient economy,” he said, adding that they generate quality job opportunities, raise industry standards and create upskilling pathways for Johorians to thrive in a globally competitive market.
He added that the arrival of Ascott Limited in Coronation Square marks a turning point for Johor's hospitality landscape.
“Ascott presence brings a world-renowned brand into our state, elevating Johor's profile on a global stage,” he added.
Ascott Coronation Square Johor Baru, will be a five-star hotel with 207 rooms housed within Tower 1 of Coronation Square, strategically located in the IIBD of the JS-SEZ.
Scheduled to open in the second half of 2029, the hotel will cater to leisure, business and long-stay travellers with comprehensive facilities including an all-day dining restaurant, swimming pool, fitness centre, residents’ lounge and meeting rooms.
Designed as a sanctuary of fine living, the property will showcase Ascott's signature touches through timeless interiors, curated lobby art installations and elevated service by the Ascott Artisan.
Guests can enjoy curated experiences, including Themed Suites and the Ascott Soirée, a cultural initiative celebrating the arts and connecting guests to their destination.
