JOHOR BARU: Phase two of Johor’s data centre development at Ibrahim Technopolis (Ibtec) is expected to attract RM30bil to RM40bil in investments over the next three years.
JLand Group managing director Datuk Akmal Ahmad said the next phase would build on the momentum of the first phase, whereby the Step East data hubs had secured RM30bil in investments.
“Construction is underway for Step West, which forms the next major component of the district’s digital backbone.
“To date, Ibtec reflects a gross development value of RM27bil with development margins projected at 30% to 40%,” he told reporters after a media luncheon for the Ibtec launch here yesterday.
He added that there are 11 data centres within Ibtec in Sedenak, Kulai, with full completion targeted for 2047.
“Covering 7,290 acres, Ibtec anchors the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone.
“The district is designed to drive higher-value sectors including medtech, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, logistics, agritech and digital technology, supported by integrated infrastructure as well as a coordinated regulatory framework,” he said.
A key feature of Ibtec is to become Asia’s largest real-world innovation sandbox, enabling companies, researchers and government agencies to test solutions, technologies and policy models directly within the district.
“The sandbox has already delivered tangible results. For instance, Kulai Municipal Council (MPKu), which previously faced lengthy approval processes involving up to 14 agencies, implemented a new fast-track standard operating procedure through the initiative.
“This system, now known as the Kulai fast lane, has significantly accelerated approvals,” he said, adding that a dedicated Ibtec MPKu unit now manages sandbox-related facilitation.
He noted that other local councils have adopted the improved standard operating procedure, demonstrating how solutions developed at Ibtec can scale across Johor.
“The concept is simple – when we encounter a bottleneck, we pilot the solution here first. Whatever proves effective can then benefit our small and medium enterprises and help them move up the value chain,” he said.
He added that Ibtec has been conceived as a low-carbon, future-ready innovation hub, rather than a conventional industrial park.
“Its compact land-use pattern, green mobility features and renewable-ready infrastructure are designed to reduce emissions while enhancing liveability,” he said.
He added that the technopolis will feature Livilab at Exclaim Discovery City, a signature mixed-use nucleus designed by Zaha Hadid Architects.
“Conceived as a global icon for innovation districts, Exclaim Discovery City will serve as the symbolic gateway to Ibtec and to Johor, placing the district alongside leading hubs worldwide in design, technology and sustainability,” he said.
