Johor Bahru City Square (JBCS), one of Johor’s most iconic retail landmarks, has announced a landmark multi-phase transformation that will redefine the mall’s experience and solidify its position as the city’s leading shopping, dining, and lifestyle destination. The Asset Enhancement Initiative (AEI) begins this month, with the full transformation slated for completion in Q4 2027.
Located just minutes from the Johor Bahru–Singapore Causeway, JBCS has long been a favourite among both Malaysians and Singaporeans. The redevelopment will introduce a refreshed façade, modernised interiors, expanded retail offerings, and a host of new lifestyle experiences designed to elevate the mall into a vibrant, future-ready hub.
What’s Coming by 2027
Once completed, Johor Bahru City Square will expand from 247 to over 300 retailers, curated across themed retail zones including:
- Fashion & Athleisure
- Home & Hobbies
- International Fashion & Cosmetics
The urban transformation will also introduce new hero attractions and lifestyle features, such as:
- 15,000 sq ft Kids Adventure Park
- 41,300 sq ft Health & Wellness Hub
- Enhanced Event Spaces for large-scale community and entertainment activities
- Integrated Hotel Apartments to create a new live-work-play ecosystem
A Five-Phase Revamp; Mall Remains Open
The redevelopment will roll out in five phases, with the mall remaining fully operational throughout. Shoppers can look forward to progressive openings of new zones and refreshed experiences as work unfolds.
Key enhancements include:
- Retail Evolution: More anchor tenants, updated speciality stores, and interactive brand experiences.
- Culinary Upgrades: New food precincts spotlighting global cuisine alongside Johor favourites.
- Family & Wellness Lifestyle Focus: Dedicated amenities for multi-generational visitors, including the Kids Adventure Park and comprehensive Health & Wellness Hub.
- Sustainability & Smart Tech Integration: Energy-efficient cooling, smart parking, enhanced digital connectivity, and improved waste management systems.
- Modern Look & Feel: A redesigned façade and contemporary interiors with improved circulation for a smoother shopping journey.
Poised for Growth with RTS Link Boost
The transformation is expected to drive tourism, retail spending, and community engagement especially with the upcoming Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, set to be operational by end-2026. With travel time between Singapore and Johor reduced to just six minutes, JBCS is gearing up to welcome an influx of cross-border visitors.
Beyond retail, the addition of hotel apartments, slated for completion in Q2 2028, will introduce a new integrated lifestyle dimension for residents, travellers, and business guests in Johor’s city centre.
Throughout the revamp, shoppers can continue to enjoy their favourite brands and experiences, with exciting upgrades to come.
