“Malaysia is set to complete the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) Action Plan by Q3 2025, with key strategies to boost local businesses, enhance cross-border trade, and attract investment while ensuring local participation.“
Kuala Lumpur, 20th Feb 2025, 02.56pm – The Malaysian government is developing the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) Action Plan, which is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2025. According to the Economy Ministry, funding for the development of economic zones, including the JS-SEZ, will be allocated under the country’s development budget.
In a written parliamentary reply, the ministry outlined key factors for the success of the JS-SEZ, including economic cooperation, joint investment promotion, and streamlined cross-border movement of goods and personnel. The government also confirmed that the JS-SEZ is a general collaboration rather than a binding agreement that imposes financial commitments on Malaysia and Singapore.
To ensure local businesses are not sidelined by large foreign investors, the government has introduced three key strategies: strengthening local supply chains, promoting technology transfer, and expanding job opportunities through skills training. Malaysian companies will also benefit from financial assistance programs, including the RM1 billion Mid-Tier Company Programme managed by Khazanah Nasional Bhd. These funds and grants are exclusively available to local firms and are not open to multinational corporations.
The JS-SEZ is expected to enhance economic ties between Malaysia and Singapore while creating new opportunities for local businesses and workers in the region.
