Wong: Johor set to become country’s new economic power

Many happy returns: Sultan Ibrahim cutting a cake for his birthday celebration as Fu (left) and Wong look on during the StarProperty.my Awards 2017 at Thistle Hotel.

JOHOR BARU: The very first Bangsa Johor Walk will be held next year to bring people of all backgrounds together.

Star Media Group Bhd managing director and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai said it was among the programmes planned by the group to boost unity and improve English proficiency in Johor.

“The walk is aimed at forging unity among all races and promoting moderation,” he said, adding that he hoped the walk would be held in March next year.

In his speech at the first StarProperty.my Awards 2017: Jewels of Johor here, Wong said Johor, as the new property hotspot in Malaysia, was becoming the country’s new economic powerhouse.

“People are looking up to Johor as it is going to be the new growth centre in Malaysia, with progress and development taking place in the state.

“The influx of domestic and foreign investors will drive property demand here, especially in Iskandar Malaysia,” he said, adding that the state’s close proximity with Singapore was an added advantage to attract investors to Iskandar Malaysia.

Wong pointed out that travelling time between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru would be reduced to just 90 minutes in the years to come with the completion of the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High Speed Rail.

He envisaged Johor as the next Klang Valley, with Johor Baru emerging as the second Kuala Lumpur.

The property market would bring much needed opportunities and economic spillover to Johor, in particular Iskandar Malaysia, he added.

“I can foresee great things taking place in Johor under the strong and steadfast leadership of Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar.

“It is something we (Star Media Group) are all excited to be part of.

“We commend the royal family on taking such bold steps to ensure the future of Johor,” said Wong.