Iskandar Investment Bhd (IIB) is taking significant steps to broaden its collaboration within the Global Business Services (GBS) Iskandar @ Medini initiative in Johor. The company has recently joined forces with GBS Malaysia and iTrain Asia, aligning with its dedication to position Medini as the first net-zero carbon Central Business District (CBD) in the region by 2030.
Strategic Partnerships and Objectives
IIB has signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with GBS Malaysia and iTrain Asia and is set to announce a partnership with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) in the third quarter of this year. These collaborations aim to strengthen the GBS ecosystem in Medini, Johor.
- GBS Malaysia: The collaboration aims to establish Medini as a premier regional hub for GBS operations.
- iTrain Asia: Focuses on initiatives to enhance skills in artificial intelligence, automation, and sustainability.
- MDEC: The forthcoming partnership is expected to drive foreign direct investments for the GBS industry, attracting new companies seeking a strategic and supportive environment for expansion.
Impact and Vision
Since its inception in 2016, the GBS Iskandar programme has attracted RM2.6 billion in investments and generated 6,500 jobs in Medini. President and CEO of IIB, Datuk Idzham Mohd Hashim, emphasized the strategic importance of Medini’s location, which serves as a hub for multi-modal transportation with seamless connectivity by land, air, and sea.
“As we embark on the next chapter of the GBS Iskandar initiative, IIB reaffirms our commitment to fostering growth and innovation within Malaysia’s GBS sector,” said Idzham.
IIB is prepared to offer tailored solutions spanning incentives, strategic initiatives, talent development, and government liaison efforts to ensure the prosperity of GBS companies in Medini’s vibrant landscape.
Commitment to Digital Transformation
MDEC CEO Mahadhir Aziz highlighted that the partnership with IIB underscores the agency’s unwavering commitment to driving digital transformation, fostering talent development, and boosting economic growth in the GBS sector.
“This collaboration seamlessly aligns with the Malaysia Digital national strategic initiative to advance Malaysia’s digital infrastructure, provide comprehensive business support, and further solidify Malaysia’s position as the digital hub of ASEAN,” added Mahadhir.
Conclusion
The expansion of the GBS Iskandar @ Medini initiative through these strategic collaborations marks a significant milestone for IIB. By enhancing the GBS ecosystem and focusing on sustainable development, IIB is setting the stage for Medini to become a leading regional hub for business services. This initiative not only aims to attract substantial investments and create job opportunities but also aligns with broader goals of digital transformation and environmental sustainability.
