SMES IN SINGAPORE SHOW STRONG INTEREST IN JS-SEZ – MALAYSIAN ENVOY

SINGAPORE, May 6 (Bernama) -- There is strong interest among Singaporean small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), with many exploring relocation opportunities, according to Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Singapore, Datuk Dr Azfar Mohamad Mustafar.

He said this interest has remained robust despite uncertainties arising from recent US tariff actions, and it is expected to drive demand for local talent in Malaysia.

“As we know, the world is in a destructive mode now, with the US and China in competition. I think many investors are looking for a place to further invest without having any problems.

“I think SMEs in Singapore increasingly realise that the republic has become a more expensive place to operate. So they need to find a place to continue being competitive,” he said after flagging off the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 at the Malaysian High Commission here today.

Azfar added that Johor’s close proximity to Singapore and lower operational costs make it an attractive destination for SMEs looking to relocate or expand their operations.

He also noted that Malaysia’s neutral stance on US-China trade tensions may further encourage businesses to view the JS-SEZ as a viable alternative.

“My officers receive inquiries daily about the JS-SEZ. We at the High Commission in Singapore have been actively providing information to interested parties,” he said.

The JS-SEZ Agreement was officially signed by the leaders of Malaysia and Singapore in January this year. 

Spanning 11 key economic sectors, JS-SEZ provides special incentives for industries such as logistics, manufacturing, financial services, business services, digital economy, tourism, food security, education, health, energy and the green economy.

Nine flagship zones have been strategically designated under JS-SEZ, namely Johor Bahru City Centre, Iskandar Puteri, Tanjung Pelepas-Tanjung Bin, Pasir Gudang, Senai-Skudai, Sedenak, Forest City, Desaru, and the Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex (PIPC).

-- BERNAMA