What is the Johor-Singapore special economic zone?

What is the Johor-Singapore special economic zone?

(Tax Update) An Overview of The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ)

The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) has recently been established, marking a significant milestone in economic cooperation between Malaysia and Singapore. Here's an update on key aspects of the JS-SEZ that investors should be aware of :

Overview and Objectives

The JS-SEZ, spanning 3,505 sq. km in southern Johor, aims to strengthen economic ties between Malaysia and Singapore. The zone's primary objectives include:

  • Creating 20,000 skilled job opportunities within the first five years

  • Supporting the expansion of 50 projects in the initial five years and 100 projects in its first decade

  • Attracting high-value investments and promoting economic growth in both countries

Key Sectors and Incentives

The JS-SEZ focuses on 11 economic sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, food security, tourism, energy, digital economy, green economy, financial services, business services, education, and health. Additional priority sectors include aerospace, medical devices, electrical and electronics, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.

Investors can benefit from the following incentives:

  • Special corporate tax rate of 5% for up to 15 years for companies undertaking new investments in high-growth and high value-added activities

  • Special tax rate of 15% for up to 10 years for eligible knowledge workers in the JS-SEZ

  • Additional tailor-made incentives for businesses operating in certain flagship zones

Infrastructure and Connectivity

  • The JS-SEZ aims to improve cross-border connectivity between Singapore and Johor through:

  • Passport-free QR code clearance at Singapore's land checkpoints with Malaysia (implemented since March 2024)

  • Development of the Rapid Transit System Link (RTS), a 4km light-rail link scheduled to commence operations by the end of 2026

  • Streamlined customs procedures for land intermodal transshipments

Investment Opportunities

For investors, the JS-SEZ presents opportunities in various sectors:

  • Construction and property development, with demand for industrial buildings, offices, and infrastructure

  • Renewable energy projects and cross-border energy trading

  • High-tech industries such as AI, quantum computing, aerospace, and medical devices manufacturing

Economic Impact

  • The JS-SEZ is projected to contribute significantly to Malaysia's economy :

  • Expected to add 117.1 billion ringgit (approximately US$28 billion) annually to Malaysia's economy by 2030

  • Potential to rival the Klang Valley as Malaysia's economic engine within the next decade.

Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre – Johor (IMFC-J)

Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre - Johor (IMFC-J) is a recently established one-stop center designed to streamline and expedite investment processes in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). Here are the key aspects of IMFC-J :

IMFC-J serves as the primary investment focal point in Johor, acting as an intermediary between investors and key government bodies and agencies. Its core objectives include:

  • Facilitating and coordinating end-to-end investment-related processes

  • Expediting various approval procedures

  • Offering a streamlined experience for investors interested in setting up businesses in Johor

IMFC-J offer

  • Consulting and advisory services tailored to Johor's unique challenges and opportunities

  • Handling of all investment matters in Johor

  • Coordination with various government agencies and departments

Contact IMFC-J

  • Interim Office :Level 3, Wisma Sunway Big Box,Persiaran Medini 5, Sunway City Iskandar Puteri,79250, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.

  • Tel : +607 233 3000 Fax : +607 233 3001

  • Email : [email protected]

As an investor, it's important to monitor the progress of the JS-SEZ, particularly regarding infrastructure development, regulatory clarity, and the achievement of investment and job creation targets. The success of this ambitious project will depend on effective implementation and the ability to address these challenges.

Let’s wait for full details on JS-SEZ from IMFC-J most likely after the Chinese New Year. Stay tune for any updates from KTP.

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