A Strategic Partnership


The JS-SEZ enables Singapore businesses to establish complementary operations leveraging both locations' advantages, access competitive resources in Johor, benefit from enhanced cross-border efficiency, and strengthen regional market presence.

Established through an Agreement exchanged between Singapore and Malaysia, this strategic initiative aims to:

  1. Improve cross-border connectivity,
  2. Enable freer movement of people, and
  3. Strengthen the regional business ecosystem.

As global competition for trade, investments and talent intensifies, the JS-SEZ marks a significant milestone in bilateral economic cooperation.


Key Features and Development 


Map

The JS-SEZ spans over 3,500 km² (more than four times the size of Singapore), encompassing Iskandar Malaysia, Pengerang, and nine flagship zones. These zones facilitate investments across 11 sectors: business services, digital economy, education, energy, financial services, food security, green economy, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and tourism.


Early initiatives to enhance cross-border operations:


  • Improved Immigration Clearance - Passport-free QR code clearance at Singapore's and Malaysia’s land checkpoints to reduce congestion and ease traffic flow on the Causeway.
  • Streamlined Business Facilitation - The Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre-Johor (IMFC-J) serves as a one-stop shop to streamline and expedite processes for companies establishing or expanding in the JS-SEZ.
  • Simplified Customs Procedures - From January 2025, businesses are only required to apply for a single transshipment permit with Singapore Customs for land intermodal transshipments, replacing the previous two-permit requirement. This helps reduce costs and improve operational efficiency.
  • Talent Development - New partnerships in education development and workforce training to meet industry demands:
    • Singapore Polytechnic and Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers
    • ITE Education Services and Johor Skills Development Centre
    • Republic Polytechnic and Johor Talent Development Council

Singapore and Malaysia will continue to strengthen cooperation in economic integration, trade facilitation, movement of people and goods, renewable energy projects, and industry-ready skills training.

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