From side stage to spotlight: Asean’s ‘second cities’ are stealing the show

[HO CHI MINH CITY] Infrastructure development and breakthrough incentives within special economic and trade zones are drawing global businesses, investors and talent beyond Asean’s traditional metropolises to emerging “second cities” such as Johor Bahru, Da Nang and Batam.

While smaller and less globally known than capital cities or primary metropolises such as Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, or Ho Chi Minh City, these rising hubs are capturing attention for their investment potential, quality of life and innovation ecosystems.  

“These shifts reflect a broader trend of decentralisation, synergistic and regional growth within Asean,” said Govinda Singh, executive director at Canada-based investment management company Colliers International.