KULAI: Global logistics firm DHL has opened a hub in Senai Airport City Free Zone here, marking its expansion to the southern region after Penang and Selangor.
Johor investment, trade, consumer affairs and human resources committee chairman Lee Ting Han said the grand opening of DHL Supply Chain’s southern region hub’s first phase signaled confidence in the state’s potential.
“Previously, DHL’s manufacturing and supply chain hubs were concentrated in Penang and Selangor, but today Johor is stepping into the spotlight,” he said in a Facebook post after the opening and groundbreaking of phase two on Monday (April 7).
Lee said DHL’s decision to establish its footprint in Senai Airport City Free Zone, one of Johor’s most vibrant and strategic growth corridors, is both timely and strategic.
“With a total investment of approximately RM100mil for phase one and two, covering over 29,614 sqm and serving high-impact sectors such as electrical and electronics, life sciences and healthcare as well as automotive, this facility is a game-changer.
“It will generate more than 200 skilled job opportunities for locals while contributing significantly to the region’s logistics ecosystem,” he added.
He also highlighted the establishment of DHL’s regional control tower at the hub, designed to connect operations across Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand.
“This strengthens Johor’s position as a key logistics nerve centre for Southeast Asia and reinforces our role in the evolving Asean supply chain network,” he said.
On the recent tariff policies announced by the United States, Lee said the uncertain and volatile environment meant that companies are no longer just seeking the lowest-cost destination; they are seeking agility, reliability and regional resilience.
“That is where smart logistics, powered by data analytics, automation and predictive technologies, as exemplified by DHL’s regional Control Tower, comes into play.
“It allows businesses to respond in real-time to disruptions, reroute inventory across borders and optimise delivery schedules - all of which are essential in managing the risks posed by fluctuating trade dynamics and tariff regimes,” he added.
The Johor executive councillor also noted the timeliness of the DHL project with the recent announcement of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone.
The zone will offer new opportunities in trade facilitation, logistics, innovation and high-value industries to create an ecosystem that enhances both Johor and Singapore’s global competitiveness, he said.
“It will bring greater regulatory harmonisation, faster clearance and smoother talent mobility, thereby transforming how goods and services move across our borders.
“With DHL’s facility located right at the heart of this emerging zone, the synergy could not be better timed,” he added.
