Johor-Singapore SEZ Agreement Finalized with Split Funding Model

The new economic zone aims to leverage the strengths of both nations, but concerns over infrastructure delays and execution persist.

Malaysia and Singapore have formalized the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) with Malaysia funding infrastructure and Singapore focusing on investment facilitation.
The SEZ will adopt a 'build-as-they-invest' model, tailoring infrastructure development to specific projects rather than speculative large-scale construction.
Business leaders expressed concerns about potential delays in infrastructure completion and increased bureaucratic hurdles under the phased approach.
The SEZ seeks to attract high-value investments by combining Singapore’s strengths in R&D and advanced manufacturing with Johor’s abundant land and resources.
Regular progress reviews and bilateral meetings between the two governments are planned to address implementation challenges and ensure balanced benefits.