JOHOR BAHRU: Singaporeans keeping an eye on regional opportunities may want to pay closer attention to the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), which is quickly shaping up to be a key driver of cross-border growth and investment.
According to a post on the Invest Johor Facebook page, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced that over 70 investors are actively eyeing the JS-SEZ, following a productive meeting with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
The session focused on deepening ties between Johor and Singapore, with mutual support for a vision of long-term economic collaboration — a timely move amid rising global interest in Southeast Asia’s economic hubs.
Momentum growing as Johor courts Singapore-linked firms
The momentum behind the JS-SEZ is clear: Johor has now received over 577 investment enquiries, with 11 coming from companies referred by Singapore agencies, according to Invest Johor. This shows that Singapore’s private sector and government-linked investors are increasingly viewing Johor not just as a neighbour, but as a strategic partner.
Singaporeans involved in sectors such as energy, logistics, and technology may find new openings as Johor positions itself as a launchpad for bilateral business.
PM Wong also welcomed Johor’s progress and expressed that he is looking forward to the deepening collaboration in these key sectors, which is an encouraging signal for firms operating in both markets.
Tuas-Iskandar RTS2 proposal points to better connectivity
In one of the most striking proposals, Datuk Onn Hafiz mooted a second Rapid Transit System (RTS2) link between Tuas and Iskandar Puteri, expanding on the current RTS project connecting Woodlands and Bukit Chagar.
This second link, if realised, could greatly enhance accessibility for Singaporeans looking to do business, work, or even live in Johor. For entrepreneurs, cross-border workers, and investors alike, the proposed RTS2 could mean faster commutes and smoother logistics, enhancing the appeal of setting up operations just across the Causeway.
Read related: ETS expansion to Johor Bahru strengthens Malaysia–Singapore rail links
Johor’s booming economy adds to investor confidence
Johor isn’t just talking big because the state is delivering on its growth promises. According to the same post, the state recorded RM30.1 billion (S$9.13 billion) in approved investments and achieved 6.4% economic growth in Q1 2025, the highest in Malaysia.
This economic performance has inspired growing interest from investors, especially after regional supply chain shifts and digital transformation.
The vision is also consistent with Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim’s ambitions to build closer economic links with Singapore; this development seeks to foster mutual prosperity between the two states.
Why this matters for Singapore
The JS-SEZ is not just about boosting the economy because it’s also a sign of growing trust between Singapore and Malaysia. This could lead to better regional stability, shared growth, and improved transport and infrastructure links.
Whether you’re a startup founder looking to expand, a logistics firm seeking cross-border access, or a simple commuter hoping for more seamless travel, the developments unfolding in Johor are directly relevant.
Ultimately, this project is likely the beginning of a closer partnership that could shape Singapore-Malaysia ties for the long term.
Read also: RM445,800 in fines: What Singapore drivers need to know about Malaysia’s VEP crackdown
