Private sector's needs to shape policies on Johor-S'pore SEZ

This will increase likelihood of the two countries reaching an agreement, say panellists at forum

- Kang Wan Chern

A deal between Singapore and Malaysia to develop South-east Asia’s first cross-border economic zone in Johor will be shaped by private-sector needs from both sides of the Causeway, trade officials and businesses said at a July 11 forum.

This will increase the likelihood of the two countries reaching an agreement to implement the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ), which was first formally proposed in January.

Both governments are intensifying efforts to establish a workable framework for the economic zone and secure greater buy-in from potential investors.

“By combining Singapore’s advantages in areas such as technology and connectivity, with Malaysia’s manufacturing capabilities and resources, we can create a synergistic partnership that propels both economies forward,” said Mr Teo Siong Seng, chaiman of a Singapore business working group put together to understand the perspectives and needs of the business community regarding the JSSEZ.

“We must approach this opportunity with creativity and a willingness to challenge conventional business models.”

Mr Teo was speaking at the JSSEZ Joint Investor Forum, which was held in the Republic by the Singapore Business Federation (SBF).

The proposal to establish the JSSEZ comes after similar efforts to collaborate on projects like the Iskandar Economic Zone failed to hit their investment targets.