Economic growth evident, progress being made on several key projects
JOHOR BARU: Three years after the launch of Maju Johor 2030 vision, the state is beginning to see tangible results across multiple sectors, says Lee Ting Han (pic).
The Johor investment, trade, consumer affairs and human resources committee chairman said among the most significant signs was the strong growth in the state’s economy.
“Over the past three years, Johor has secured approvals for 1,761 investment projects, which are expected to generate more than 53,000 direct job opportunities.
“The arrival of major multinational companies is evidence of Johor’s rapid transformation into a high-value, technology-driven economy,” Lee told The Star in an interview about the progress of the initiative that has five years to go.
“With the collective effort of the people, various policies and initiatives under this vision have started to bear fruit, bringing about visible changes and achievements for the state,” added the Paloh assemblyman.
The plan revolves around six key pillars – governance, economic development, social safety nets, infrastructure, public safety, health and the environment, and youth empowerment.
On the infrastructure front, Lee said progress was being made on several key projects including the widening of the North-South Expressway and Senai-Desaru Expressway.
Other projects include the Gemas-Johor Baru Electrified Double Track Rail Project (Gemas-JB EDTP) and the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, which connects Bukit Chagar to Woodlands North in Singapore.
Lee said future mobility solutions, such as the Elevated Automated Rapid Transit (E-ART) system and upgrades to Senai International Airport would ease traffic congestion and strengthen Johor’s role as a regional transport hub.
“In education, the state has launched a pilot school programme where selected students will sit for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exams to improve proficiency in English and STEM subjects.
“At the same time, the state has set a target to eradicate hardcore poverty by 2030 through targeted aid.
“Efforts to address housing and healthcare are also underway, with a target to build 100,000 units of affordable homes to cater to young and lower-income residents,” he added.
Lee said two strategic initiatives, the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and Forest City Special Financial Zone (FCSFZ), were expected to further transform the state.
Visit Johor Year 2026, with its cultural, retail and ecological products will further boost the state’s economy.
“These developments form part of a positive report card resulting from our continued implementation of Maju Johor 2030,” he said.
However, Lee added that development cannot be celebrated in isolation from the people’s lived experiences.
He said issues such as recurring floods, unresolved water supply problems and rural students still struggling with access to education remained top concerns.
“The rising cost of living is a reality we cannot ignore,” he said, adding that the voices of ordinary folk, especially those outside the city, were being heard.
Lee said while rapid economic growth was important, it must not leave the vulnerable behind.
“Future policies must prioritise environmental sustainability, prevent overcapacity in development and maintain regional balance.
“Johor stands at a historic crossroads, whereby to become a truly developed state, we must not only be wealthy, but also humane. Not just strong, but sustainable,” he added.
