ISKANDAR PUTERI: Investor confidence in Johor remains strong despite global economic and geopolitical uncertainties, says Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
He acknowledged concerns about external challenges, including tensions in the Middle East and their potential impact on investments and state revenue, but stressed that Johor continues to attract strong interest from foreign investors.
Onn Hafiz said a recent working visit to China — following earlier trips to Shanghai and Beijing last year — revealed sustained enthusiasm among companies there to expand into Johor, particularly under the “China Plus One” strategy.
“More than 30 companies have expressed interest in expanding their operations in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ),” he said, adding that many firms are seeking stable and competitive locations in the region.
Onn Hafiz made these remarks in reply to a supplementary question from Anuar Abdul Manap (BN-Pemanis) at the state assembly meeting held at Bangunan Sultan Ismail in Kota Iskandar here on Monday (May 4), asking whether the state can still attract investment amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
He noted that feedback from global logistics company DHL highlighted Johor’s growing appeal, with the firm reportedly completing expansion targets within two years, compared with an initial projection of 15 years.
According to Onn Hafiz, the JS-SEZ, a joint initiative between Malaysia and Singapore, is increasingly seen by investors as a potential new engine of growth for Southeast Asia, beyond its role as a bilateral economic catalyst.
He said the state’s success in attracting investment was the result of coordinated efforts among federal and state agencies, including the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry, local councils and land offices.
“Investors see Johor as offering stability and consistency at a time of global uncertainty. This gives them confidence to do business and expand here,” he said, adding that the state government would continue to strengthen its investment ecosystem while ensuring sustainable growth.
