The Johor government has endorsed the need for improved connectivity between Forest City and Singapore, proposing a direct link to attract more investors to the Special Financial Zone (SFZ) and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
State Trade Investment and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman Lee Ting Han emphasized the importance of seamless transportation to Singapore as a critical factor in enhancing the appeal of both the SFZ and JS-SEZ to international investors and visitors.
On Thursday, Forest City hosted a subject matter expert seminar where over 800 experts gathered to share insights on the implementation of the SFZ and JS-SEZ. Among the key suggestions was the establishment of a direct ferry route from Forest City to Tuas in Singapore, which experts believe could significantly reduce the pressure on existing customs checkpoints and improve connectivity within the special zones.
In addition to the direct route, the experts proposed the creation of multiple ferry routes between Johor and Singapore, leveraging Johor’s geographical advantages. This initiative is expected to facilitate smoother movement of people, goods, capital, and data between the two regions.
Lee confirmed that the Johor government is actively engaging with the Forest City developer on this matter, recognizing that direct access to Singapore would greatly enhance Forest City’s attractiveness to international investors and tourists.
“The state government is fully supportive of the proposal and will assist in its implementation. We are currently waiting for the confirmed proposal from Forest City to move forward to the next stage,” Lee said.
He acknowledged that while the proposed ferry routes offer significant potential, their realization would require time, given the need for discussions and negotiations with Singaporean authorities.
The proposal marks a strategic effort by Johor to enhance the connectivity of its flagship developments, thereby reinforcing the region’s status as a prime destination for global investment and tourism.
