ISKANDAR PUTERI, Sept 25 – Iskandar Investment Bhd (IIB) views the establishment of the Forest City Special Financial Zone (SFZ) as a landmark development that will significantly boost Johor’s economy, the Sun reported.
The SFZ’s introduction comes at a crucial time, when the state is poised to capitalise on its strategic location and growing infrastructure, cementing its role as a vital financial and economic hub in Southeast Asia.
IIB president/CEO Datuk Idzham Mohd Hashim expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming Johor’s SFZ and its potential to propel the region’s growth and strengthen its connection with Singapore.
“We are incredibly excited about the launch of the Forest City SFZ, which is set to attract high-value investments through enticing incentives like a concessionary corporate tax rate of 0% to 5%, a flat 15% income tax rate for knowledge workers, and fast-tracked immigration processes.
“We anticipate that these benefits will make Johor a highly appealing destination for multinational corporations and global financial institutions, driving job creation and growth in sectors such as financial services, technology, and logistics. The Forest City SFZ will be a game changer, fuelling sustainable economic development, fostering innovation, and enhancing cross-border collaboration in the region.”
The long-awaited revival of Forest City through the SFZ is also poised to further catalyse Johor’s development trajectory.
ts proximity to Singapore, one of the world’s foremost financial centres, strengthens its appeal to global investors and positions Johor as a key player in the regional economy.
IIB sees this as an exciting opportunity for Iskandar Puteri, where it plays a strategic role as the master developer. Iskandar Puteri’s proximity to Forest City places it in an ideal position to benefit directly from the economic spillover of this initiative.
With its existing projects, such as Tech Medini and GBS Iskandar @ Medini, Iskandar Puteri is already thriving as a hub for technology and innovation. This will accelerate Iskandar Puteri’s transformation into a world-class business district and a centre for high-skilled jobs.
Additionally, Johor’s upcoming transport infrastructure projects – including the Rapid Transit System (RTS), the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART), and the potential revival of the High-Speed Rail (HSR) – will enhance connectivity between the SFZ, Iskandar Puteri, and Singapore.
