JOHOR BARU: Major infrastructure developments that are strengthening connectivity, attracting investments and creating new opportunities across industries will shape Johor’s next phase of economic growth.
Projects such as the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), expanding logistics networks and continued investments in industrial and digital infrastructure, will reinforce the state’s position as a strategic gateway for trade, investment and cross-border business.
Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) Southern Region chairman Lee Ting Kiat (pic) said the RTS Link is a game changer for Johor because it gives businesses something they value greatly, which is certainty.
“Today, businesses have to plan around unpredictable travel times when meeting customers, moving people or travelling across the Causeway.
“The RTS changes that. Businesses can plan with greater certainty, and that gives investors and businesses more confidence to grow,” he said during MICCI’s Southern Region’s monthly get-together held in partnership with Astaka Padu Sdn Bhd.
Greater certainty in cross-border travel is also expected to improve labour mobility, facilitate business collaboration and give companies greater confidence when planning operations and making investment decisions across the Johor-Singapore corridor.
The RTS Link is also expected to strengthen Johor Baru’s property market by increasing the appeal of residential and commercial developments, particularly within the city centre.
Improved accessibility is expected to place greater value on developments located near key transport links, while better connectivity is expected to support broader urban regeneration and create more vibrant, liveable communities.
Complementing this, the JS-SEZ is expected to strengthen Johor’s investment proposition and accelerate industrial growth.
As more businesses establish or expand their presence in the state, opportunities are expected to extend beyond large investors to manufacturers, logistics providers, engineering firms, technology companies, professional services and other supporting industries.
While incentives play an important role, infrastructure readiness, connectivity and established industrial ecosystems will remain key considerations in investment decisions.
Investment momentum is already visible across industrial and digital infrastructure, including data centres.
As investment activity expands, demand is expected to increase for contractors, engineering and utilities providers, logistics companies, consultants and other businesses supporting the wider ecosystem.
Capturing these opportunities will depend on businesses being ready to seize them.
Alongside continued improvements to transport, utilities, housing and public amenities, businesses should strengthen their capabilities through digitalisation, internationally recognised certifications and productivity improvements to remain competitive.
Lee encouraged businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to not be stagnant.
“SMEs need to strengthen their digital capabilities, obtain the right certifications and make use of the government grants and support that are available.
“Businesses that prepare early will be in a much stronger position as more investments come into Johor and new opportunities emerge,” he said.
