Johor Bahru:Johor The enhanced Global Services Hub (GSH) tax incentives under Budget 2027 are anticipated to bolster Johor's appeal as a regional business hub, as highlighted by Iskandar Investment Bhd (IIB).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, these incentives, including a five percent tax rate on qualifying income for eligible new companies, are particularly pertinent to the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). The GSH incentives aim to attract regional business functions in finance, technology, data, compliance, customer operations, and business management, which involve higher-value work and decision-making.

IIB, 60 percent-owned by Khazanah Nasional Bhd, is focused on the strategic development of Iskandar Malaysia, particularly Iskandar Puteri. IIB's president and CEO, Datuk Idzham Mohd Hashim, stated that Budget 2027 enhances Johor's investment appeal, especially for high-value regional business operations. The budget's incentives are designed to advance connectivity and emphasize talent, creating a more attractive investment landscape for Johor.

The company also stressed measures to improve connectivity and homeownership. These include support for public transport enhancements in Johor Bahru, an expanded Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme worth up to RM20 billion to aid 80,000 first-time homebuyers, and stamp duty relief for eligible first-home purchasers from 2027 to 2030.