JOHOR BARU: The arrangements for the launch of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) master plan, including its location, are still being finalised, says Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.
He said both Malaysia and Singapore have agreed that the launch would be witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his Singapore counterpart Lawrence Wong.
"The annual leaders' retreat between Malaysia and Singapore is expected to take place in Ipoh this year, so we are still finalising whether the launch will be held there or at another location.
"What has been agreed upon is that the launch will be witnessed by both prime ministers," he told reporters after attending a Deepavali celebration and handing over aid at Pangsapuri Serantau Baru here on Saturday (Oct 31).
Akmal Nasrullah said the annual leaders' retreat is scheduled to take place on Dec 4, but arrangements for the programme are still being worked out.
"We also need to take into account logistical matters involving the leadership of both countries and how to ensure that the launch of the JS-SEZ master plan and blueprint will have the greatest impact," he said.
Meanwhile, Akmal Nasrullah said Malaysia and Singapore would hold the first meeting of the Johor-Singapore Cooperation Ministerial Committee (JSCMC) on Monday (Nov 2).
"This will be the first meeting under the new JSEMC structure, which was agreed upon by both countries.
"I will be leading the Malaysian delegation together with Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
"The meeting will be co-chaired by Singapore National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat and me," he said.
Akmal Nasrullah said the meeting would provide an opportunity for both countries to review the progress of the JS-SEZ initiative and discuss future plans.
Earlier, Akmal Nasrullah, who is also Johor Baru MP, announced an allocation totalling up to RM318,000 in conjunction with Deepavali.
The allocation includes RM260,000 to repair damaged staircase handrails at Pangsapuri Serantau Baru as well as donations to community groups and temples.
