Potential Sectors for Collaboration and Singapore Firms' Operational Concerns in Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone

Mr Neil Parekh Nimil Rajnikant asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) which are some of the potential business sectors in Johor that Malaysia businesses are keen to collaborate with Singapore businesses under the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ); and (b) what are some of the infrastructural and operational areas in the JSEZ that continue to be of concern to Singapore businesses.

Sir, the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) seeks to strengthen economic connectivity between Singapore and Johor by improving the flow of goods and people and the business environment in Johor. It will enable both Johor and Singapore to build on each other's complementary strengths to better compete for global investments together. These could come from a range of sectors, including manufacturing, transport and logistics, digital economy and energy.

In a report released by the Singapore Business Federation in July 2024, businesses surveyed on the JS-SEZ said they wished to see operational and infrastructural improvements that would enhance investment facilitation, labour availability and the cross-border movement of goods and people. We have prioritised these issues in our discussions with the Malaysian government.

I thank the Minister of State. If I may ask a supplementary question. In the Minister of State's view, how will the JS-SEZ help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as well as other businesses in Singapore?

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Just three quick points.

First, the JS-SEZ offers twinning opportunities for businesses to establish complementary operations in Johor. So, businesses can tap on to Singapore's offerings as a tech, business and financial hub while also using Johor's land and resource advantages. That is one. Second, the JS-SEZ can serve as a gateway for Singapore businesses to better serve their clients in Malaysia. And third, businesses can look forward to moving both goods and talent across the border in a shorter time and this will enhance operational efficiency.