Johor Corporation’s (JCorp) wholly owned subsidiary, JLand Group Sdn Bhd (JLG), has announced an ambitious partnership with the globally acclaimed Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) to design and develop the Discovery City precinct within the expansive Ibrahim Technopolis (IBTEC) township. This collaboration marks a significant step in the evolution of IBTEC, a 7,290-acre township that is poised to become a major circular city within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
A Vision for Sustainable Development
Spanning 582 acres, Discovery City is envisioned as a model of environmentally conscious urban planning. The project aims to integrate cutting-edge design with the region’s natural landscape, creating a harmonious blend of form, function, and sustainability. ZHA will spearhead the design efforts for this mixed-use development, working in tandem with AJM-Planning and Urban Design Group Sdn Bhd, the local master planner and principal submitting person for the development order plan.
IBTEC is strategically positioned to be a pivotal destination for investment and development in Malaysia’s southern region, with an estimated gross development value (GDV) of RM27 billion. The township is expected to play a crucial role in driving economic growth and innovation within the JS-SEZ, enhancing the area’s appeal as a premier investment hub.
Strategic International Collaboration
Datuk Sr Akmal Ahmad, Deputy Chairman of JLand Group, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “IBTEC is designed to be a cutting-edge hub, strategically located and built with smart infrastructure to drive innovation, all while ensuring sustainable growth for the future. This collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects underscores our commitment to regional and international partnerships, positioning JLG as a leading end-to-end real estate developer.”
The highlight of Discovery City will be the Signature Gallery building, an iconic structure with a GDV of RM269 million. This will be ZHA’s first landmark project in Malaysia, showcasing the firm’s distinctive approach to 21st-century architecture and sustainable design. The building will adhere to stringent local and international standards, including the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation’s (MGTC) Low Carbon Cities Framework (LCCF) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifications.
Pioneering Sustainable Architecture
ZHA’s design philosophy for Discovery City prioritizes the integration of sustainable structures with the natural environment. The firm plans to implement smart city technologies and maintain a strong commitment to minimizing environmental impact. By embracing principles of circularity and fostering a symbiotic relationship between the built environment and nature, Discovery City is set to establish a new benchmark for sustainable urban development in Malaysia and beyond.
Gianluca Racana, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Discovery City will be our first project within Malaysia’s architectural landscape, and we are honoured to be awarded this opportunity. We are committed to crafting an extraordinary development that will both inspire and respect its setting with our maiden project in Malaysia.”
Conclusion
The Discovery City project within IBTEC is poised to become a landmark development in Johor, blending innovative architectural design with sustainable practices. As part of the broader IBTEC township, this precinct will play a vital role in the economic and environmental landscape of the region, positioning Johor as a leader in sustainable urban development. With the involvement of Zaha Hadid Architects, Discovery City is set to redefine the standards for future developments in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia.
