Onn Hafiz Ghazi, the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) of Johor, addressed the National University of Singapore Society’s 70th Anniversary Lecture on 18 September. He discussed the potential of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ) and Special Financial Zone, drawing comparisons to the success of Shenzhen, China. The lecture highlighted the strategic importance of Johor's proximity to Singapore and the collaborative efforts between the two regions to enhance economic growth.

Background

The JSSEZ aims to replicate the success of Shenzhen, which has thrived due to its proximity to Hong Kong. Over the past four decades, Hong Kong and Shenzhen have established four land entry points, while Singapore and Johor have only developed two: the Tuas Second Link and the incomplete Rapid Transit System (RTS). The century-old Causeway remains a critical connection. Onn Hafiz emphasised the need for improved connectivity to bolster economic ties between Johor and Singapore.

Bridging gaps

During the lecture, participants inquired about the possibility of a third bridge between Johor and Singapore. Onn Hafiz prioritised the completion of the RTS, expected to be operational by 2027, which will carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour. He mentioned that considerations for a third bridge would follow the successful implementation of the RTS. Additionally, the Johor government is exploring a potential ferry service between Iskandar Putri and Tuas to enhance connectivity.

Addressing concerns about the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP), Onn Hafiz committed to resolving the issue promptly. The following day, it was announced that two more VEP installation locations would be established in Johor.

Shenzhen Bahru

Concerns were raised about Johor becoming Malaysia's Shenzhen, with participants noting Shenzhen's significant growth compared to Hong Kong. One participant shared a story about the 1980s when people moved from Shenzhen to work in Hong Kong, a trend that has since reversed. Onn Hafiz reassured that his vision for Johor is not a zero-sum game but a win-win situation for both regions. He highlighted the extraordinary measures needed to achieve extraordinary results, as seen in Shenzhen's development, and emphasised the collaborative efforts between Singapore and Johor governments, which he believes will yield even better outcomes.

Johor at the table

The JSSEZ initiative positions Johor at the forefront of attracting investors to Malaysia. Johor is actively participating in federal initiatives, such as a national task force on traffic congestion chaired by Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister. This involvement allows Johor to address its challenges and leverage solutions developed in Kuala Lumpur. The state is also focused on enhancing its business ecosystem, improving the ease of doing business, and attracting investments. Onn Hafiz announced that Forest City would host the first Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre outside of Kuala Lumpur, aiming to streamline policies and procedures.

From Pontian to Pengerang

Onn Hafiz outlined ambitious goals for the SEZ, including the development of areas such as Johor Bahru, Pontian, Kulai, and Pengerang. This proposed SEZ would encompass a significant portion of Southern Johor, an area larger than Singapore. Infrastructure investments have already begun, with highways from Johor Bahru to Desaru and from Kulai to Ayer Hitam being widened. Onn Hafiz humorously remarked that the road widening stops at Ayer Hitam to encourage people to stay in Johor.

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Further discussions between Malaysia and Singapore regarding the JSSEZ are expected at the next Malaysia-Singapore leaders' retreat. The initiative aims to foster economic collaboration and mutual growth, building on the strong foundation of cooperation between the two regions.