Johor bahru: Mizuho Bank (Malaysia) Bhd has announced a commitment to support the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) by providing nearly US$600 million in financing for clients investing in the area. This initiative is expected to boost investment interests in sectors such as food and beverage manufacturing, data centers, power generation, and chemical-related manufacturing.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, who is also acting as the minister of economy, emphasized the crucial role financial institutions like Mizuho Bank play in building investor confidence, enhancing visibility, and opening new investment channels. His remarks were made during the exchange of the letter of intent between the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) and Mizuho Bank. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Datuk Nor Azmie Diron, Datuk Mohd Noorazam Osman, and Koichi Zaiki from Mizuho Financial Group Inc and Mizuho Bank Ltd.
IRDA acts as the facilitation agency for investments in the JS-SEZ, while Mizuho Bank stands as one of Japan’s largest and most established financial services institutions. Amir Hamzah expressed confidence that with IRDA as the facilitator and Mizuho Bank as a trusted financial partner, the JS-SEZ will attract new investments, create jobs, and strengthen Malaysia’s role as a regional economic hub.
Amir Hamzah further highlighted the importance of continuous strategic partnerships in attracting high-value investments, enhancing cross-border connectivity, and creating opportunities benefiting both Johor and Malaysia. He noted that in May 2025, the JS-SEZ secured strategic partnerships with six financial institutions, underscoring the momentum of investment interest in the region.
Mizuho Bank is well-positioned to facilitate catalytic projects in the 11 promoted sectors of JS-SEZ, leveraging its extensive network of Japanese clients. The initiative aims to translate tangible benefits for the local population, including job creation and opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises to supply components and services.
Koichi Zaiki revealed that a pipeline of 10 to 20 Japanese companies has expressed interest in investing in the JS-SEZ, signaling strong international interest in the region’s potential.