Johor: Johor's target of achieving a gross domestic product (GDP) of RM260 billion by 2030 has been described as realistic, with the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) expected to be one of the main drivers of the state's economic growth. Associate Prof Dr Mohd Effandi Yusoff, a senior lecturer at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia's Faculty of Management, said the target is achievable provided several critical economic factors are effectively implemented and managed over the next five years.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johor is in a strong position to attract both domestic and foreign investments. A stable and peaceful environment is crucial for building investor confidence and ensuring sustainable and continuous development. Johor has already shown promising performance, recording the country's highest approved investments, totaling RM91.1 billion in the first nine months of 2025, surpassing Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang.
Mohd Effandi emphasized the importance of integrating economic operations between Johor and Singapore, referencing the development model of Shenzhen and Hong Kong. In the JS-SEZ context, research and development and financial activities could be centered in Singapore, while Johor focuses on high-value manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain aspects. This strategic integration would enable both regions to leverage their competitive advantages, benefiting Johor's economy directly.
Talent availability will be a crucial factor in supporting Johor's transition to an innovation- and high technology-based economy. Johor's public and private higher education institutions can produce the necessary skilled manpower, with additional support from universities outside Johor to meet rising industry needs.
Infrastructure projects, including efficient transportation and cross-border facilities, will accelerate the flow of capital, goods, and labor. The Rapid Transit System Link (RTS Link) between Johor Bahru and Singapore, digital customs clearance, and other supporting infrastructure developments will serve as key catalysts for attracting high-quality investments into the state.
The JS-SEZ Master Plan and Investment Blueprint will be launched on March 30. Established through an agreement signed on Jan 7 last year, the JS-SEZ is expected to create over 20,000 high-skilled job opportunities.